Swine Flu Update

The HSE has launched their national Swine flu vaccine programme.  Those with Multiple Sclerosis and other conditions are in the high risk category and will recieve the vaccination first.  Patients are encouraged to contact their local GP for an appointment.  If your GP is not administering the vaccine you can attend a number of vaccine clinics around the country.  Click here to find a clinic in your local area and book an appointment.

MS Ireland’s Medical Advisor, Dr Michael Hutchinson, advises:

• People with MS should receive both the swine flu vaccine and the normal flu shot, particularly wheelchair users and those on immunosuppressive treatments like Tysabri, Mitoxantrone and alemtuzumab.


• It is safe to take the flu shot while on a disease modifying therapy (DMT) and it will not affect the efficacy of the DMT.


• Those with MS should not experience any side effects different to the general population.

To learn more about swine Flu and the HSE’s forthcoming vaccine programme:

• Log onto www.swineflu.ie or www.hse.ie


• Download the HSE’s information sheet on long-term illness and swine flu

Past Swine Flu information.  August 2009