The immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC). The committee's recommendations are based on the prevalence of the relevant disease in Ireland and international best practice in relation to immunisation. It makes recommendations on vaccination policy to my Department.
NIAC continues to revise recommendations to allow for the introduction of new vaccines in Ireland and to keep abreast of changes in the patterns of disease. Therefore, the immunisation schedule will continue to be amended over time. All vaccines administered through the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule are provided free of charge.
Varicella (chickenpox) is an acute infectious disease caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Primary infection with varicella results in varicella (chickenpox). Recurrent infection results in herpes zoster (shingles).
Varicella vaccination is not currently included as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule.
The Varicella Zoster Vaccine was proposed for a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) by my Department in December 2019. Unfortunately, HIQA's HTA prioritisation process due to complete in Q1 2020 was paused as the HTA team was diverted to provide evidence synthesis to support the work of the NPHET and associated groups
This topic was subsequently considered by HIQA during the 2021 prioritisation process and was prioritised for inclusion in the HIQA HTA work programme for 2021/2022. I can confirm that this HTA is currently underway and is expected to be completed in 2022. On completion, the HTA will inform the next steps to be taken.
