Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2012
233. Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the introduction of the MenB vaccine into the immunisation schedule when licensed early in the new year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55789/12]
View answerMeningococcal B vaccine has received a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) but it is not yet licensed for use. The CHMP’s opinion will now be sent to the European Commission for the granting of a marketing authorisation.
The immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC).NIAC is a committee of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland comprising of experts in a number of specialties including infectious diseases, paediatrics and public health. The committee's recommendations are informed by public health advice, international best practice and by the National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics (NCPE).
There is no doubt about the role that vaccines have played in improving the health of children. The development of new vaccines is very welcome. A Health Technology Assessment which includes a cost benefit analysis is carried out prior to any new vaccine being considered. This has a vital role in ensuring that care technologies, including vaccines, are used in a manner appropriate to their ability to maximise health gain and achieve value for money.
Should NIAC advice recommend the inclusion of a new vaccine into the primary childhood immunisation programme in Ireland, my Department, in association with the National Immunisation Office will examine the issue. If it is subsequently decided that a vaccine should be included in the vaccination programme, the Health Service Executive, through the National Immunisation Office, initiates the procurement process.
