Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 30 Jun 1998

Vol. 493 No. 3

Written Answers. - Vaccination Programme.

John Gormley

Ceist:

275 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the vaccines administered on a universal basis to all infants; the vaccines available at the discretion of the parents of infants; whether he has satisfied himself that the benefits of operating universal vaccination programmes outweigh any attendant risks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15835/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The recommended primary childhood immunisation schedule is as follows:

BCG vaccination against tuberculosis is available to new-born babies.
Diphtheria	DTP/3 in 1	At two, four and six months.
Pertusis(Whooping Cough)
Tetanus
Haemophilus Influenzae		At two, four and six months
Type B (Hib)
Poliomyelitis		At two, four and six months
Measles
Mumps and	MMR	at 15 months
Rubella

Vaccination is administered on a voluntary basis and is subject to parental consent in all cases.

I am satisfied that, in accordance with the general international consensus, the benefits of vaccination programmes far outweigh the potential risks and help to protect children from the serious consequences of a range of previously prevalent diseases. I wish to add that all vaccines are extensively tested for safety and efficacy before licensing and that surveillance is maintained after they are licensed. I take this opportunity to emphasise the importance of vaccination against these diseases and to encourage parents to avail of the free service provided by general practitioners in this regard.