The HSE has warned that flu is actively circulating in the community and has urged the public to take caution to prevent it spreading further.
Some 192 cases of influenza were confirmed during the week ending 20 November, and 170 the previous week.
The HSE said that case numbers are increasing in all age groups, but particularly children and teens under 15.
Dr. Greg Martin, the director of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSPC), issued a press release in which he stated: "People in at-risk groups need to get immunised against flu if they have not previously done so.
Indicating that influenza is now actively circulating in the community, the influenza-like illness (ILI) rate for the week ending November 20 was 22.5 cases per 100,000 people, which is higher than the threshold of 18.1 cases per 100,000.
A high temperature, achy muscles, a dry cough, a headache, and a sore throat are some of the flu symptoms that typically appear within a few hours.
The common cold, which often develops more gradually and typically includes a runny nose and a normal temperature, is different from this.
It takes two weeks for the flu shot to start working. For those in at-risk groups, such as those 65 and older, children ages 2 to 17, pregnant women, those under 65 with long-term illnesses, and those residing in nursing homes, it is free.
All healthcare professionals and caregivers are also advised to get the immunisation.
You can see a list of pharmacies that offer the flu shot here.
"Anyone who contracts the flu should stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter medications like paracetamol to relieve symptoms," continued Dr. Martin. Anyone who is at risk for contracting the flu should see their doctor right away, as should anyone who is not at risk but has flu symptoms that are severe or getting worse.
"GPs may want to advise patients who fall into these categories to take antiviral medication. If you think you might have the flu and need to go to the emergency room or your doctor, call first.
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