Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 3 December 2021
153. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if there are plans to address the fact that persons with myocarditis are unable to get the Covid-19 vaccine and therefore do not qualify for an EU Digital Certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57707/21]
View answerThe current high level of COVID-19 infection and the dominance of the significantly more transmissible Delta variant poses a very substantial threat, particularly to those who are not fully protected through vaccination. Public health advice remains that those who are not fully vaccinated should avoid congregated indoor settings for their own and others safety.
The National Public Health Emergency Team gave some consideration to the issues arising for those people that cannot receive a COVID-19 vaccine for medical reasons as part of its discussions on the 18th October 2021 on the continuing response to COVID-19 and the extension of Covid Pass arrangements. The matter is being given further consideration.
The Deputy may wish to be aware that as outlined in Chapter 5a of the Immunisation Guidelines for Ireland, those with a contraindication to one mRNA COVID-19 vaccine should not receive another authorised mRNA vaccine. Consideration may be given to non-mRNA vaccination for anyone 18 and older including pregnant women. This should be given after an interval of at least 28 days and the person should be considered fully vaccinated. The Immunisation Guidelines can be found online: www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/hcpinfo/guidelines/.
