Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
114. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Health the position regarding any research her Department has carried out into making the flu vaccine free for all to encourage greater uptake; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3352/26]
View answerThe 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.
NIAC review and revise their recommendations on an ongoing basis to allow for the introduction of new vaccines in Ireland, to incorporate findings from horizon scanning and to keep abreast of changes in the patterns of disease. NIAC continuously monitor global developments in the field of immunisation. The immunisation schedule, therefore, continues to be amended over time based on emerging evidence.
The Influenza Vaccination Programme provides a free flu vaccine to those most vulnerable to the effects of the flu. For those in recommended groups, the influenza vaccine offered as part of the Influenza Vaccination Programme reduces the risk of serious illness and death from influenza. Ensuring high vaccine coverage is a priority for my Department as it is the key public health intervention that is required to reduce severe illness from influenza over the winter period. Strong surveillance, immunisation programmes and healthcare system readiness including Infection Prevention control are key to protecting public health.
While Ireland performs well compared to other countries in Europe, achieving high vaccine coverage in older age groups, it is essential that all those in recommended groups come forward to avail of the influenza vaccine.
