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57 There is no one simple answer to cover all here. The HSE have created the "vaccine bonus" which updates regularly. For the latest information check the HSE website. I have already tested positive for COVID-19, do I still need to get vaccinated? If you have already had COVID-19, you still need to get vaccinated. This is because you could become infected with the virus again. There's a small chance you might still get COVID-19 even if you have been vaccinated. But you'll be protected from the serious illness the virus can sometimes cause. When should you not get your COVID-19 vaccine? Do not get your COVID-19 vaccine if you: • Have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine. • Currently have COVID-19 – wait until it has been 4 weeks since you first tested positive. • Have symptoms of COVID-19 – self-isolate (stay in your room) and phone your GP to get tested. • Have a fever (temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above) – wait until you feel better. • Are restricting your movements- wait until you have completed your period of restricted movements to get your vaccine. COVID-19 Vaccines and pregnancy Talk to your obstetrician, midwife, GP of BMO about getting your COVID-19 vaccine if you are pregnant. It's recommended you get your COVID-19 vaccine when it's offered to you. Being vaccinated will reduce the chance of you becoming very unwell. Once I am vaccinated do I still have to adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines? Yes, even if you are vaccinated, continue to follow advise on how to stop the spread of COVID-19 in public by social distancing, wearing a face covering and washing your hands properly and often. How does the COVID-19 Vaccine work? Vaccines prepare your immune system (your body's natural defences) to recognise and defend itself against a specific virus. Some types of vaccine contain a live virus. For example, the flu vaccine contains a small amount of the flu virus. But none of the COVID-19 vaccines in use have the COVID-19 virus in them. They work differently. There are currently 2 types of COVID-19 vaccine in use: • mRNA • viral vector All vaccines are tested for safety and effectiveness before they can be used. The HSE only uses a vaccine if it meets the required standards of safety and effectiveness. Training/Courses: The DF training environment continues to operate inside COVID-19 guidelines with essential training taking place. Other courses starting in July onwards to highlight include 56 Potential NCOs Course in 2BTC, PTL Course, Joint Command Staff Course and the 15th All Arms Standards Course in the DFTC. Recce Course in 1 Cn Cois, ARW SOFQ Course. To see a more extensive list of courses are starting in Sept onwards to December, please go to the Member's Area or Military.ie. This list gives details on upcoming Career and Skills courses. Other courses are available however check with your Unit Orderly Room for a full list of courses. DFTC, 1Bde, 2Bde and the Air Corps Fitness Centre have supplied dates and information for upcoming fitness test dates. Most locations are testing for essential purposes ONLY which includes Overseas Qualification or selection for a course. Please check the Member's Area or your Unit Orderly room for more information. All Formations and Branches are reminded of the importance of ensuring that the current Health and Safety guidelines, as issued by Government and Defence Forces are implemented and adhered to by all pers. Content on the Member's Area of Military.ie The Member's Area of Military.ie has been updated with the below information and you will find the most up to date Internal Communication information will be published. The Public Relations Branch has launched its monthly update video. The one minute ling video is available to watch on all Defence Forces Social Media channels as well as the MA. Emergency Services and Essential Services Discount Application info. Job Vacancies and opportunities: A page has been added to the Member's Area which includes open Expressions of Interest that serving members can apply for. For more information about job requirements or closing dates of the vacancies that are advertised, please check with your unit orderly room. The Weekly Internal Communications Update is uploaded every Tuesday to the Member's Area of Military.ie. This will contain a summary from the previous week and also the JTF statistics highlighting the contribution of the Defence Forces to the fight against COVID-19. Link to the following photo albums can be found on the Member's Area: • Air Corps crash rescue services. • Maj Gen Maureen O'Brien press conference. • Medical Officers Commissioning. • Basic Firefighters Course. • Air Corps Company Commanders Challenge. • Infantry Weapons Wing Sniper Commanders Course. • Famine Commemoration 2021. To view more information on all the above please go to The Member's Area of Military.ie. Scan the QR code to straight the Member's Area. If there is Defence Forces Internal Messages you wish to have published here or on Military.ie please email feedback@defenceforces.ie and/or internalcomms@military. ie and/or internalcomms@ military.ie Pictures: Maj Gen O'Brien Basic Firefighters Course Air Corps Crash Rescue Service INTERNAL COMMS

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