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Vaccination Programme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 September 2020

Tuesday, 29 September 2020

Questions (861)

Marc MacSharry

Question:

861. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Health if the flu vaccine for children aged two to twelve will be made available for free for the 2021 winter period and beyond; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26692/20]

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Written answers

Given the potential for the winter flu season in 2020/2021 to coincide with a resurgence of COVID, and the importance of minimising hospital attendance, the Government is expanding the provision of vaccination without charge to all of those in the at-risk groups aged from 6 months up, including healthcare workers. In addition, vaccination for 2 - 12 year olds is being introduced this year in the context of the COVID pandemic; this will be kept under review for future years. 

The expanded programme will ensure that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza will have access to vaccination without charges. By providing vaccination to those most at-risk, and those most likely to require hospitalisation if they contract influenza, it is anticipated that the programme will see a reduction in the number of influenza-related hospital admissions, as well as a reduction in the overall spread of influenza in the community.

The vaccination campaign will be accompanied by a comprehensive communications campaign to encourage the greatest possible take-up.

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