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Vaccination Programme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2016

Tuesday, 26 April 2016

Questions (293)

Finian McGrath

Question:

293. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 392 of 14 April 2016 to support a matter regarding the Gardasil vaccine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8194/16]

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Written answers

In Ireland, the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) is the regulatory authority for medicines in Ireland. While no medicine (including vaccines) is entirely without risk, the safety profile of Gardasil has been continuously monitored since it was first authorised both nationally and at EU level. As part of its monitoring of the safety of medicines, the HPRA operates an adverse reaction reporting system, where healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse reactions they consider may be associated with their treatment.

I am aware of claims of an association between HPV vaccination and a number of conditions experienced by a group of young women. It appears that some girls first suffered symptoms around the time they received the HPV vaccine, and understandably some parents have connected the vaccine to their daughter’s condition. I want to make it quite clear that anyone who is suffering ill health is eligible to seek medical attention, and to access appropriate health and social care services, irrespective of the cause of their symptoms. These girls and their families should seek medical advice from their family doctor in the normal manner and be guided by this advice in accessing appropriate services including specialist opinion where necessary.

As this question relates to a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for a direct reply. If you do not receive a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.

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