ALERT: HSE pinpoint people at risk of 'bad infection' and sign you should rush to A&E

The HSE is warning groups particularly at risk from bad viral infection as we head towards the winter months.

In advice published on their website, they warn: "Common viral infections in winter can be dangerous if you are over the age of 65 or have a chronic illness," but there are other groups who should be cautious.

The viral infections that put people most at risk are flu (influenza), norovirus (a stomach bug causing vomiting and diarrhoea), respiratory tract infections - for example, the common cold, pneumonia or tonsillitis.

They also warn that people "need to be aware of the ongoing risk of COVID-19 (coronavirus)."

People at risk of bad infections include those over 65, but also people with chronic lung problems (COPD, asthma), diabetes, chronic heart disease, chronic kidney or liver disease, cancer, conditions or treatment that weakens the immune system or people who are frail (poor nutrition and mobility)."

The HSE says: "You do not need an antibiotic if you have a viral infection. Antibiotics cannot treat viruses."

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The advice continues: "If you are fit and healthy you can usually get over these infections by resting, drinking plenty of fluids
using medicine you buy from a pharmacy or shop without a prescription

"But viral infections are very contagious. They can spread quickly before you notice the symptoms. It can be difficult to stop them spreading to people who are vulnerable."

They tell people to go to your nearest emergency department (ED) if: you feel very unwell and feel you need urgent care, adding, "you will be seen, even when it is full or very busy."

They further add: "To try and avoid infection you should: get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19, wear a face mask in crowded places, clean objects and surfaces that other people touch, avoid people with obvious symptoms of infection
clean your hands properly and regularly."

"Signs of being ill with a common infection such as the flu usually include: feeling very tired, losing your appetite, having aches and pains, a temperature or chills."

"If your illness is not getting worse, you can usually treat it at home. There are medicines available without a prescription will help to treat your symptoms," the HSE says.

"Talk to your pharmacist or GP if you are in one of the at-risk groups, or are worried about your symptoms.

"If you live alone make sure someone knows you are feeling unwell. They can check that you are not getting worse and get supplies for you.

"If part of your body is not working properly because of infection you'll need to be checked."

Getting vaccinated

Vaccination is the most effective way of preventing infections.

Vaccination works by getting your immune system to produce antibodies against the disease.

There is no recommended vaccine for the winter vomiting bug.

Flu vaccine

The flu vaccine is a safe and effective vaccine that is offered free of charge for certain groups of people. It's offered every year to help protect people at risk of getting seriously ill from flu.

You may feel sore for a little while after the jab.

Pneumococcal vaccine

The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for people with chronic illnesses such as a heart or liver condition.

It protects you against serious and potentially fatal pneumococcal infections such as pneumonia or meningitis. It is also known as the pneumonia vaccine.

It is free to people aged 65 and over, or if you have certain conditions.

COVID-19 vaccine

COVID-19 vaccines will protect you from serious illness from COVID-19.

If an infection gets worse, the HSE advises:

In some cases, a viral infection can spread inside the body and affect organs such as the brain or lungs. It is important to notice the signs early on for rapid and effective treatment.

Brain

Seek urgent medical care if you or a person you know becomes confused, agitated or difficult to rouse following an infection.

Lungs

Signs an infection has spread to your lungs include:

rapid breathing
not being able to finish a sentence without needing to grab another breath
blue-tinged lips
Circulation
Your hands may be clammy, white and cold. You may have dizziness that can only be relieved by lying down.

Kidneys

If you have not peed in over 12 hours and have no urge to pee, then phone your GP.

Tummy

Signs an infection has spread to your stomach include:

severe pain
vomiting
diarrhoea
Skin

If you have sore, red and swollen areas of skin oozing pus, then contact your GP.