Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2015
362. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the new vaccination against meningitis B, Bexsero, here; when a decision will be made as to whether this drug will be made available in this jurisdiction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3521/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra404. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will provide details of the decision of the national immunisation advisory committee on the new vaccine against meningitis B; and if he will act to ensure early adoption of this in our vaccine programme. [3865/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 362 and 404 together.
The immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC). The NIAC is a committee of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland comprising of experts in a number of specialties including infectious diseases, paediatrics and public health.
NIAC has issued guidance in relation to the use of the Meningitis B vaccine in the control of clusters or outbreaks of Meningococcal B disease.
My Department has recently received a letter from the Chairman of NIAC regarding the introduction of the Meningitis B vaccine into the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule. This matter will be considered by my Department.
