Vol. 453 No. 5
56 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce a comprehensive strategy to ensure 100 per cent effective and safe vaccines to protect all children against measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, polio, tetanus and the form of meningitis for which a vaccine is available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9461/95]
Limerick East): All medicinal products including vaccines must be the subject of a product authorisation granted by the Minister for Health on the advice of the National Drugs Advisory Board. In assessing the application the board would be concerned to establish the safety, quality and efficacy of the product concerned. In addition the board monitors and records adverse reactions to all licensed medicines.
Appropriate storage conditions and adherence to true contraindications, of which there are very few, are also essential to ensure the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Health professionals are aware of these factors.
