The HSE is in the advanced stages of planning the 2021/2022 Influenza Vaccination programme. It is anticipated immunisations will begin in early October and will be available free of charge to adults in specified at-risk groups and children aged from 2 to 17 years of age.
As of 10 June 2021, for the 2020/2021 winter season the following claim amounts have been received from GPs and pharmacists in relation to the following categories; approximately 0.97 million claims for administration of QIV to adults, approximately 218,000 and 8,100 claims for the administration of LAIV to children aged between 2-12 years inclusive and 13-17 years inclusive respectively, and a further approximately 52,000 claims for the administration of QIV to children. A report on influenza vaccine uptake for the 2020/2021 winter season in acute hospitals and long-term/residential care facilities will be published in due course by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.