A stronger and more potent dose of the Flu vaccine will be given to people aged over 65 this year.
The vaccine will include an adjuvant, an ingredient which helps vaccines work better by creating a stronger immune response.
Pharmacies expect this year's flu vaccine roll out to start at the beginning of next month, with the vaccine available free of charge to those aged 65 and older, and other high-risk groups.
Darragh O'Loughlin, Secretary General of the Irish Pharmacy Union, says this is the first time the HSE is using a stronger flu vaccine for older people:
"For adults aged 65 and older, there's a new one called an Adjuvant vaccine, so it's a slightly more potent version of the vaccine, specifically tailored for older people, to make sure they get the maximum protection possible from the vaccine this year, and all of that vaccination campaign will start off in early October."
