Bríd Smith
Ceist:218. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Health the date vaccination of the over 70 years of age cohort will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12333/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 4 March 2021
Ceisteanna (218)
Freagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to the timely implementation of a COVID-19 immunisation programme.
The priority is to first vaccinate and protect directly the most vulnerable amongst us, that is, those most likely to have a poor outcome if they contract the virus. The priority is to directly use vaccines to save lives and reduce serious illness, hence the focus on the over 65 year old cohort in long term residential care facilities, and healthcare workers in frontline services often caring for the most vulnerable.
The next group to be vaccinated are those aged 70 and older in the following order: 85 and older, 80-84, 75-79, and 70-74. Vaccination of this group began in February.