The Primary Childhood Immunisation Programme (PCIP) provides immunisation for all children against BCG, Diphtheria/Polio/Pertussis/ Tetanus/Haemophilus influenza (Hib), Meningococcal C, Measles, Mumps and Rubella.
Vaccine uptake statistics are collated on a quarterly basis by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre. The most recent report published in November 2006 for the second quarter 2006 reported the following vaccine uptake rates: BCG at 12 months 92%; Diphtheria/Polio/ Pertussis/Tetanus/Haemophilus influenza (Hib) children at 12 months 86%, children at 24 months 91%; Meningococcal C — children at 12 months 86%, children at 24 months 90%; Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) — children at 24 months 86%.
Vaccine uptake figures have shown a steady increase since 2001. I am concerned about the immunisation uptake rates because of the risk of unimmunised children contracting the potentially serious diseases concerned. However, I am encouraged by the fact that the immunisation uptake rates are improving. The Health Service Executive (HSE) is now targeting areas of low vaccine uptake with specific strategies to increase the national figures.