Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his questions. With regard to Janssen-Johnson & Johnson, I will ask the Department for the most up-to-date note on it. I have heard various different accounts over the past few days in terms of timing. I can confirm that not only are we and the EU aware of it, the Janssen-Johnson & Johnson vaccine is one of the vaccines we have advanced purchased in anticipation of the company applying for and securing market authorisation. We have advanced purchased 2.2 million doses of that particular potential future vaccine. It is a very interesting one for two reasons of which I am aware. First, the latest information I have is that it would be a single-dose vaccine, which would be very welcome. Second, as with the AstraZeneca vaccine, it can be kept at refrigerated temperatures. A single-dose vaccine at refrigerated temperature would be very attractive. However, we do not yet have information on the effectiveness of the Janssen vaccine in clinical trials or the effectiveness of it in the field. We will be keeping a close eye on that.

With regard to carers, if I understand the Deputy correctly - my apologies if I do not - he is seeking prioritisation for those caring for people with disabilities. I will get him an exact note in that regard. In the context of those with disabilities who are in long-term residential care, it includes all staffing working in long-term care and caring for those with disabilities in long-term residential care. That is happening right now. In the formal sector - the paid carer sector - the decision of the HSE was that those who are employed as carers in the sector are deemed to be front-line healthcare workers and will, therefore, be in cohort 2. If there is a subgroup in this area in respect of which the Deputy would like a little more clarity, he can let me know.

I am aware of much of the commentary on vitamin D and its potential to boost the immune system and provide protection against viruses, including Covid-19. I am happy to ask the relevant group within the Department and NPHET for a view on that and other potential opportunities in terms of public health.

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