Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 July 2023
666. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the preparedness of Ireland for the forthcoming influenza seasons with specific reference to people over 65 years of age; whether there are any plans to introduce an increased vaccine schedule to this most at-risk cohort; if there are plans to undertake health technology assessments for this cohort; when same is likely to occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32651/23]
View answerThe National Influenza Vaccination Programme ensures that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza have access to vaccination. The objective of the programme is to reduce the overall spread of influenza in the community and to protect those most at risk from influenza-related hospital admissions.
To inform decision making in relation to the current Influenza Vaccination Programme, my Department has requested that HIQA include a Health technology assessment (HTA) in its work programme, in relation to vaccination with an enhanced quadrivalent influenza vaccine for those aged 65 and older. In addition, my Department has also requested that HIQA include a HTA on the inclusion of the 50–64 year age group as an at-risk group in the influenza vaccination programme.
A HTA is a multidisciplinary research process that collects and summarises information about a health technology to provide information regarding clinical effectiveness and safety, cost-effectiveness and budget impact, organisational and social aspects, and ethical and legal issues. The information is collected and presented in a systematic, unbiased and transparent manner to inform policy decision making.
I am advised that the HTA on the inclusion of the 50–64 year age group in the influenza vaccination programme has commenced and that the HTA related to an enhanced quadrivalent influenza vaccine for those aged 65 and older will commence thereafter.
