asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of recent newspaper reports in Great Britain regarding serious problems being caused by the 3-in-1 child vaccination; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Child Vaccination.
8.
I assume the Deputy is referring to the diphtheria/tetanus/ pertussis vaccination. I am aware that there have been reports in Great Britain of adverse reactions to the whooping cough component of this vaccination. These reports have not caused the British authorities to alter their existing policy in favour of vaccination.
Whooping cough can be a serious and sometimes fatal disease. There were two deaths from it last year in this country, one the year before, three the year before that and an average of three every year over the last ten years. Vaccination against it provides a reliable immunity. All vaccines can cause reactions and there is some evidence that on rare occasions these reactions can be serious. Replies to a recent questionnaire sent to county medical officers regarding the diphtheria/pertussis/ tetanus immunisation procedures did not result in any reports being received of serious adverse effects from it.
The position of all vaccines in use in this country is kept under constant review by my Department in association with the county medical officers of health who are primarily responsible for the implementation of the immunisation schemes. A meeting has been arranged between officers of my Department and a representative group of CMOs later this month at which immunisation procedures will be reviewed.
Will the Minister state if a report has been received by the National Drugs Advisory Board in connection with this matter?
Not that I am aware of.