Thousands of people are said to be at risk as a new strain of flu not covered by the seasonal vaccine is spreading throughout Ireland. 

The Irish Independent reports that the much-publicised Aussie Flu has been overtaken by the Influenza B Yamagata strain. Thousands of people who have already received the vaccine are not protected against the latest strain. 

Influenza B Yamagata is now accounting for 60 to 70% of confirmed flu cases. It is not seen as severe as Aussie flu and is more likely to affect younger age groups who have not been previously exposed to the virus.

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