The HSE's Chief Clinical Officer says a 'twindemic' of Covid and Flu this winter is possible, but not certain.
Colm Henry, says recent trends of influenza from other countries show lower death rates compared to last year.
Mr Henry, says a spike of flu cases in Australia, which usually signals trends, haven't led to high rates of serious illness and hospitalisations.
Earlier this week, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, instructed the HSE to take steps to use all private hospital capacity available this winter.
The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, says agreements with private providers need to be made early, as public hospital wouldn't be able to cope with levels of over-crowding and staff shortages in the system.
