Dr. Colm Henry:

I am not aware of the HTA report. Every year the national immunisation office begins engagement in the spring, and it bases its purchase and advance ordering on the most effective vaccine based on the most likely strains that will emerge in the coming winter. The evidence usually comes from the southern hemisphere. That is a cycle that we are well used to. In recent years we have had more than adequate supplies. In fact, we have had surplus supplies of vaccine in place both for adults and children, and available and aligned with our communication campaign from autumn onwards. It is factored into our national immunisation year.