Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 June 2015
662. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will provide details of the recent situation where the Health Service Executive had no supplies of the BCG tuberculosis vaccine; if he has sought a report on this from HSE; the measures he has initiated to ensure that there is no repetition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21393/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra761. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the number of times the BCG tuberculosis supply has been inadequate over the past ten years; if there are similar situations across Europe; the possibility of sourcing same elsewhere; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21790/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 662 and 761 together.
BCG vaccine is currently part of the primary childhood immunisation schedule and is provided by the HSE for newborn babies. It is given to prevent the most serious forms of tuberculosis in children such as TB meningitis. The vaccine is given by HSE community doctors in health centres or maternity hospitals as it is administered intradermally.
The licensed supplier of BCG vaccine has informed the HSE that the delivery of BCG vaccine has been further delayed. A lack of BCG vaccine stock is an international problem for EU member states as well as UNICEF who are having difficulty obtaining supplies of BCG vaccine. BCG vaccination clinics in HSE sites and Maternity hospitals have been deferred until new stock arrives. The HSE is in close contact with the vaccine manufacturer to expedite delivery of new stock as soon as possible. Local Health Centres will arrange appointments for BCG vaccination clinics when the BCG vaccine supply is restored.
The HSE is aware of alternative suppliers of BCG vaccine which are not licensed in Ireland and is in consultation with the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) about sourcing this alternate supply.
No cases of TB were reported in Ireland in children less than 4 years of age in 2014. There is no threat to public health from this temporary vaccine shortage.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
