Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 April 2022
1550. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Health if he will respond to concerns raised by a person (details supplied); the supports available in such a situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20105/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like thank the Deputy for raising these concerns. I would also like to assure your constituent and their daughter that I fully empathise with the difficulties they have faced. The COVID-19 pandemic has been an extraordinarily challenging time, causing untold difficulties for people across the country since its onset. While I am not in a position to comment on individual cases, I would like to wish your constituent and their daughter a full and speedy recovery. With respect to the care required going forward, the medical team currently involved in the case are best placed to advise on the most appropriate course of treatment.
Regarding the medical expenses regrettably incurred, the Department of Health is exploring the possibility of a broader vaccine compensation scheme, not specific to COVID-19. Unfortunately, there is still significant work required in this area.
With respect to vaccine safety, I can assure you that Health Products Regulation Authority (HPRA) maintains a very close watch on reported adverse reactions. In its most recent vaccine safety update (published 24th March) it noted that, whilst not experienced by everyone, all vaccines have some side effects, the vast majority of which are mild to moderate in nature. These side effects need to be continuously balanced against the benefits in preventing COVID-19 illness. Overall, the national reporting experience continues to support the favourable assessment that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccines outweigh the risks. This, of course, does not detract from the adverse reaction your constituent experienced but I hope that it goes some way to assure you that the vaccine is safe and that we should continue to have confidence in it.
