Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
1196. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 2066 of 27 July 2021, if NIAC has reviewed further information or studies available regarding the use of mixed heterologous vaccine schedules; if NIAC made any updated recommendations on vaccination policy to the Government on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42078/21]
View answerThe immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC). The Committee's recommendations are based on the prevalence of the relevant disease in Ireland and international best practices in relation to immunisation. It makes recommendations on vaccination policy to my Department.
NIAC has provided updated guidance in relation to the mixing of vaccines, specifically relating to certain people who are yet to complete a two dose Covid-19 vaccine regimen. The NIAC advice on heterologous vaccination relates to those who are contraindicated from taking a second vaccine dose of the vaccine they initially received (e.g. had a reaction to a first dose of vaccine) and those who have already had a first dose of Vaxzevria® and who did not complete the vaccination schedule as recommended and have requested a mRNA second dose.
The HSE has recently commenced heterologous vaccine administration in line with NIAC guidance.
