PHA confirms influenza case in special school pupil

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has confirmed that a case of influenza has been reported in a pupil attending Ceara School, Lurgan. The Ceara School is a special school for children with severe learning disability.

Information letters have been issued to parents of other children at the school highlighting the importance of flu vaccination and encouraging them to get their children vaccinated. Local GPs have also been informed. No other associated cases have been identified.

Last year there was a programme of swine flu (H1N1) vaccination for pupils attending special schools. The PHA advises that all children who attend these special schools should avail of this year’s flu vaccination programme, currently being offered by GPs.

The PHA recommends that all special school pupils have the flu vaccine this year, even if they had the swine flu vaccine last year. This year’s vaccine will also protect against two other strains of flu, which could have serious complications in these children. It will also boost their immunity to swine flu. Parents are encouraged to contact their local GP for information about local arrangements.