Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
449. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Health to provide an updated timeline on the health technology assessment of a national immunisation programme against chickenpox given the 294% increase in the number of hospitalisations due to complications with chickenpox to date this year in Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31996/23]
View answer450. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Health when he intends to launch a national immunisation programme for chickenpox, subject to a positive HTA assessment by HIQA; whether it will be included in his Budget 2024 discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31997/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 449 and 450 together.
The 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 practice in relation to immunisation. It makes recommendations on vaccination policy to my Department.
NIAC continue to revise recommendations to allow for the introduction of new vaccines in Ireland and to keep abreast of changes in the patterns of disease. Therefore, the immunisation schedule will continue to be amended over time. All vaccines administered through the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule are provided free of charge.
Varicella (chickenpox) is an acute infectious disease caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Primary infection with varicella results in varicella (chickenpox). Recurrent infection results in herpes zoster (shingles). The Varicella vaccine is not currently included as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule.
HIQA are undertaking a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and, on completion, the outcome of the HTA will form the basis of decision making in relation to the inclusion or otherwise of the varicella vaccine in the National Immunisation programme. It is expected that the HTA will be completed in the coming months.
