Alan Farrell
Question:131. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the roll-out of the winter flu vaccine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51378/22]
View answerThursday, 20 October 2022
Questions (131)
Written answers
The 2022/23 influenza immunisation programme commenced on 3 October 2022. The flu vaccine is available free of charge to adults over 65 years, individuals in specified at-risk groups and children aged from 2 to 17 years of age. This programme ensures that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza will have access to the flu vaccination without a charge.
There are two types of flu vaccine available this year. The nasal spray flu vaccine is available for all children aged 2 -17 and an injectable vaccine is available for all other eligible groups.
Over 2,500 GPs and Pharmacies are administering the free HSE flu vaccines this season. Residents of HIQA registered Nursing Homes and all house-bound patients will be offered the flu vaccine from a HSE mobile vaccination team.
Further data on uptake rates in the recommended groups will be provided by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) during the season.
Operational responsibility for the rollout of the vaccine is with the HSE.
Further information on the at-risk groups can be found through the following link: Getting the flu vaccine - HSE.ie
www2.hse.ie/conditions/flu/getting-the-vaccine/.