Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
1429. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Health if the vaccine certificate will be extended to persons who cannot accept the Covid-19 vaccine for legitimate medical reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63212/21]
View answer1601. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in relation to vaccine certificates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1083/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1429 and 1601 together.
The current high level of COVID-19 infection 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 Department of Health is considering the issues arising for those people that cannot receive a COVID-19 vaccine for medical reasons.
It is important to note that the number of people with an absolute contraindication to COVID-19 vaccination is very small. There are very few people who cannot receive one of the current vaccines due to pre-existing allergies or history of anaphylaxis. Further information, and details of the options available to those who have had a reaction to their first vaccine dose, is available in the Immunisation Guidelines
www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/hcpinfo/guidelines/covid19.pdf and in the document Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 vaccines for people with pre-existing allergic conditions www.rcpi.ie/news/releases/frequently-asked-questions-about-covid-19-vaccines-for-people-with-pre-existing-allergic-conditions/
