**Update: March 2024**
The HSE is currently working put the below recommendations into operation in pharmacy, and further information on dates for the spring campaign will be communicated as soon as it is available.
COVID-19 Spring Booster Campaign
NIAC has recommended a COVID-19 Spring booster for the following cohorts:
- those aged 80 years and older;
- those living in long-term care facilities for older adults; and
- those aged 5 years and older with immunocompromise associated with a suboptimal response to vaccination.
NIAC also recommends that the spring booster should be made available for those aged 70 to 79 years who, following discussion with a healthcare provider, request vaccination.
Once the HSE have made this new recommendation operational we will be supplying limited vaccine appointments for these cohorts in our Baggot Street Store only. We will update this page with further information as it becomes available.
Queries in relation to COVID vaccines can be sent to our pharmacist by emailing vaccine@meagherspharmacy.ie
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What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a very infectious viral illness which can cause serious illness, hospitalisation and even death, particularly in elderly and patients that have a compromised immune system. COVID-19 is caused by a new type of Coronavirus that was discovered in December 2019.
Why is it important to get a COVID-19 vaccine?
Some people who get COVID-19 can get serious complications which make them very sick where they may need treatment in hospital or in intensive care. COVID-19 can even cause people to die.
There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you as it effects different people to varying degrees. If you do get the virus it can spread to other people around you, like your family and friends.
COVID-19 vaccines will offer you protection from COVID-19 by teaching your immune system how to protect you from this disease. If you have been vaccinated, and you come into contact with Covid-19 infection, your immune system should stop the infection from making you sick. It is important to note that some people might still get COVID-19 even after having the vaccine, but the vaccine works to reduce this to a mild illness.
Are COVID-19 vaccines safe?
- COVID-19 vaccines used in Ireland are safe.
- All vaccines used in the Republic of Ireland must be approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The EMA only approves vaccines once they are satisfied that they are safe and effective.
- Experts across the world have worked together to develop safe vaccines as quickly as possible.
- In Ireland, the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) works to make sure that side effects that people get are reported and followed up.
Are there any side effects from COVID-19 vaccines?
- Like all medicines, vaccines can have side effects. The side effects are mostly mild or moderate and some don’t get any side effects at all.
- Mild side effects can include a sore arm or itching where the injection was given, feeling tired, feeling sick, body chills or feeling like you have a fever.
- We know that serious side effects to vaccines, like an allergic reaction, are extremely
- There are also very few reports of rare clotting issues occurring in some people following vaccination. Symptoms of blood clots include shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling, persistent abdominal pain and severe and persistent headaches or blurred vision and if any of these were to occur you should speak with your doctor.
Do I have to get a COVID-19 vaccine?
- When the vaccine is available for you, it is your choice whether to get it.
- You will be shown a HSE information leaflet about the vaccine, and asked by the person who gives you the vaccine to give your consent.
- It is important that you have all the information you need to help you make the decision that is right for you.
Have you any other questions about COVID vaccines?
Our Pharmacists in Meaghers are all trained to answer queries and give professional advice on COVID-19 vaccines. Should you have any questions about getting a vaccine please call into any of our pharmacies or email vaccine@meagherspharmacy.ie
