Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
710. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Health the reason the free flu vaccine was not extended to all children between 6 months and two years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9435/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe scope of the winter influenza vaccination programme which is planned for this year arises on foot of a report prepared by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee. That report recommended the use of a Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV) delivered via nasal drops for children aged from 2 years. Use of this vaccine has a number of advantages over the intramuscular quadrivalent vaccine otherwise used, including ease of delivery and potentially increased effectiveness. The LAIV is licensed for use in children aged from 2 years.
The planned expansion will also allow children aged from 6 months access to vaccination without charges when those children are in one of the identified at-risk groups.
