Available at McSharry Pharmacy in Galway & Athlone
Staying up to date with your COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines is an important way to protect yourself and your community. At McSharry's Pharmacy - serving Galway City and County and Athlone, we provide safe, accessible vaccination services in Ireland.
What We Offer at McSharry Pharmacy
Locations: Galway City and County, Athlone
Vaccines Available (when booking opens):
- Flu Vaccine - Injectable for adults; nasal spray for children
- COVID-19 Vaccine / Booster
Who Is Eligible for a Free Vaccine?
Many people in Ireland qualify for free vaccination, including:
- Adults aged 65+
- Children aged 2-17 (Flu spray)
- Pregnant women
- Healthcare workers
Alternatively, the price is €35
Why Get Vaccinated?
Flu Vaccine: The flu virus changes every year, so an annual vaccine gives the best protection. It helps reduce serious illness and hospitalisation.
COVID-19 Booster: Immunity from previous vaccines or infections can fade. A booster helps restore protection, especially for older adults and those with health conditions.
Combined Protection: The HSE advises that flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same appointment, making it easier to stay up to date.
Who Can Get the Flu Vaccine For Free?
The HSE provides the flu vaccine free of charge for people at higher risk, including:
-
Adults 65 years and older
-
Pregnant women
-
Children aged 2–17 years (nasal spray)
Adults and children with long-term health conditions, including:
-
Heart disease (e.g. coronary syndrome)
-
Chronic liver or kidney disease
-
Respiratory disease (COPD, cystic fibrosis, asthma, bronchopulmonary dysplasia)
-
Neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis)
-
Diabetes mellitus
-
Haemoglobinopathies
-
Morbid obesity (BMI over 40)
-
Immunosuppression (including cancer treatment)
-
Children on long-term aspirin therapy
-
Children with neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g. cerebral palsy)
-
Those living in a nursing home or long-term care facility
-
Healthcare workers
-
People in regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl
-
Carers or household contacts of people with chronic health conditions or Down syndrome
If you are not eligible for the free vaccine, you can still receive it privately once bookings open.
Booking Your Appointment
Online booking will be available once the programme officially opens.
-
Choose your nearest McSharry Pharmacy in Galway, Athlone or Athenry.
-
Select flu vaccine, COVID-19 booster, or both.
-
Confirm eligibility for free or private service.
Protect yourself and your community this winter. Vaccine bookings are not yet open, but you can check back soon or visit your local McSharry Pharmacy in Galway, Athlone, or Athenry for the latest updates
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the flu vaccine work?
The flu vaccine helps your body produce antibodies to fight infection. It starts to work within 2 weeks and must be taken every year as flu strains change.
Is the flu vaccine safe?
Yes. It has been safely used worldwide for decades, including in children and pregnant women.
Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?
No. The injection does not contain live flu virus and cannot give you the flu.
Are there side effects?
Most side effects are mild, such as soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or tiredness. These usually pass in 1–2 days.
Can I get the flu and COVID – 19 vaccines together?
Yes. If you are eligible, both vaccines can be given at the same appointment.
Is the vaccine safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. The flu vaccine is safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Why does the vaccine matter?
-
Flu spreads quickly and can cause serious illness.
-
Vaccination reduces your risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.
-
Protection develops within about 2 weeks and lasts through the flu season.