I propose to take Questions Nos. 511, 593 and 595 together.
Prior to 2020/2021, the seasonal influenza vaccination was available without charge to Medical or GP Visit card holders in one of the HSE-defined at-risk groups. Those in the at-risk groups, who did not hold a medical card or a GP visit card were provided the vaccine without charge and typically paid an administration fee to have the vaccine administered.
In 2020/2021, given the potential for the winter influenza season to coincide with a resurgence of COVID-19 and the importance of minimising hospital attendance for the treatment of influenza, the Government expanded the provision of vaccination without charge to all of those in the at-risk groups, regardless of eligibility status, and to all children aged from 2 to 17 years.
The 2021/2022 Influenza Vaccination Programme was launched on the 4th of October 2021 and, in line with last year's expanded programme, vaccinations are available free of charge to adults in specified at-risk groups and children aged from 2 to 17 years of age. This will ensure that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza, who are those in the at-risk groups, will have access to vaccination without charges.
By providing vaccination to those most at-risk, it is anticipated that there will be a reduction in the number of influenza-related hospital admissions, as well as a reduction in the overall spread of influenza in the community.
A person who holds a medical card or GP visit card, but who is not in one of the at-risk categories and who wishes to be vaccinated may be charged a fee.