I propose to take Questions Nos. 1232, 1366 and 1409 together.
Varicella (chickenpox) is a common, highly infectious disease mainly affecting children under ten years of age caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The Varicella vaccine is not currently included as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule.
My Department asked the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) to carry out a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) on the Varicella Zoster Vaccine which was published on July 13th 2023.
HIQA found that there is clear and consistent evidence that the chickenpox vaccine is both safe and effective in preventing chickenpox and its complications. It also found that adding the chickenpox vaccine to the childhood immunisation programme is likely to be cost effective.
The HTA found that adding the vaccine to the childhood immunisation schedule would cost between €13 million and €28 million over the first five years, depending on whether one or two doses are given.
The HTA findings will be considered and will inform a decision in relation to the inclusion of the chickenpox vaccine in the childhood immunisation programme.
I have asked the HSE to respond directly in relation to the costing aspect of the question.