What you need to know about getting the jab

Q. Who is this first stage of swine flu vaccination aimed at?

A. Over 410,000 people who have medical conditions which make them susceptible to swine flu are being singled out for the first phase of vaccination.

Also included are women over 14 weeks pregnant, and people who share a home with those whose ability to fight off flu may be affected by cancer or other treatment.

People over 65 who have medical conditions are excluded for now.

Q. Where can I get the vaccine?

A. Around 2,300 GPs in around 1,800 surgeries have signed up. Another 45 HSE-run swine flu clinics also open this week, although not all will be available every day.

Q. Can I just drop into the GP or clinic for vaccine?

A. Although you can just walk in to your doctor's office, you may be facing a long wait so you are asked to make an appointment. You can book an appointment at www.swine flu.ie.

Q. How safe is the vaccine?

A. The general consensus from health authorities is that it is safe, although you may suffer mild side effects which should pass quickly.

Q. Is the vaccine free?

A. Yes -- there is no fee for either the vaccine or the administration.

Q. I am nervous about swine flu, although I don't have a medical condition and am not pregnant. Will I be turned down if I ask for it?

A. The advice is to allow this first round of vaccine for those deemed most at risk. Vaccine is still scarce. The people who are most vulnerable should be given first chance to protect themselves.