Vol. 544 No. 3
313 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will extend cover for free flu injections to those on long-term illness books, especially those suffering from diabetes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28697/01]
Influenza vaccine is available free of charge from general practitioners to medical card holders at risk of contracting the disease. The at risk groups include persons aged 65 years or older, those with specific chronic illness such as chronic heart, lung or kidney disease, diabetes mellitus and those with a suppressed immune system.
In circumstances in which a patient is in the at risk groups, but not a medical card holder, there is no charge for the actual vaccine as this is provided free of charge to general practitioners from health board supplies. However, the fee for administering the vaccine in such cases is a matter between the general practitioner and the patient.
