A new health index from a leading pharmacy has revealed a lack of concern from the Irish public towards the flu ahead of the winter - leading to the risk of a 'twindemic'.
Already, we're seeing countries like Australia suffer with the effects of the winter flu combined with Covid, with the flu virus affecting all age groups, and not just the elderly or vulnerable.
The 2022 Winter Health Index from LlloydsPharmacy was published on Wednesday morning and the research shows that 71% of Irish adults aged 35-44 intend to either not go for flu vaccination or are still unsure.
There are some positive trends in the Index as well, with the research showing that amongst those that currently take daily vitamins or supplements, just over half (56%) claim they take them for general health, with 48% claiming they take them to boost immunity and just over a third (36%) to boost energy.
Vitamin D once again continues to be the most popular vitamin (58%) taken by respondents who take a daily vitamin, followed by a multi-vitamin (44%).
Off the back of this, Lloyds have offered a Buy One Get One Half Price offer throughout September where customers can mix and match on selected vitamins and supplements.
Denis O’Driscoll, LloydsPharmacy Superintendent Pharmacist said "We have seen worrying trends coming from Australia as Ireland prepares for the combination of Covid-19 and flu season together.
"LloydsPharmacy are on a mission to ensure our communities are fully protected this winter, offering our customers their flu vaccination and Covid-19 booster. Our highly trained colleagues are always on hand to offer tailored advice and support for the health and wellbeing of families in our communities."
The Winter Health Index was created in 2021 by LloydsPharmacy to monitor people’s changes in attitudes and actions surrounding healthier living, preventative health measures, and a better understanding of their overall health.
2022 research has been conducted by Empathy research on behalf of LloydsPharmacy.
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