Tony Gregory
Question:59 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health the steps, if any, which are being taken to acquire the meningitis vaccine from the Finlay Institute in Havana, Cuba; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6447/95]
Written Answers. - Meningitis Vaccine.
Limerick East): Reports that a vaccine for bacterial meningitis has been developed in Cuba and could be used here to prevent most cases of the disease have been checked out thoroughly by my Department and, in particular, with the World Health Organisation. This vaccine is still in the early trial stage and has not been tested as yet to the point where it could be used on a population-wide basis. The WHO is not prepared to recommend its use at this point and we would need much more data as to its efficacy and safety before considering its use here. I will, of course, be monitoring developments with a view to introducing an immunisation programme as soon as a safe, effective and acceptable vaccine is available.