Noel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 104: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the work carried out under the H1N1 vaccination programme; the number of complaints that were received regarding children and adults receiving overdoses; the information available here or internationally in respect of side-effects for children who received a double dosage of Pandemrix; the protocols for communication with parents and handling cases of such overdoses; the basis of assurances given by staff; if it is based on international experience or other; if the parents of a child (details supplied) in Dublin 11 will be invited to discuss this matter with officials of her Department and Health Service Executive officials. [27364/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The public pandemic vaccination campaign came to an end on 31st March 2010. Following a full assessment of the current situation, the risks of a second wave, the availability of vaccine and other factors, the National Public Health Emergency Team decided, following advice from the National Immunisation Advisory Committee, that those in the "at risk" group should continue to be vaccinated. This means that up to September 2010, the vaccine will continue to be available free of charge through GPs and Maternity Units to these particular groups. The vaccine will also be available to those travelling to the southern hemisphere during the upcoming influenza season.

The H1N1 vaccines used in Ireland were Pandemrix and Celvapan and it is estimated that 1.1 million doses have been administered in Ireland to date. The Irish Medicines Board is aware of six children who inadvertently received adult doses of Pandemrix in error. Of these, 3 cases reported no adverse reaction, the others who showed symptoms have all recovered without consequence. IMB is working very closely with its European and international partners in monitoring vaccine safety. At least 42.3 million people have been vaccinated in the European Economic Area and the balance of risks and benefits for the centrally authorised H1N1 vaccine remains positive.

The HSE regional project managers were responsible for coordinating the response to clinical and operational/administrative incidents. The case raised by the Deputy was handled in my Department in line with the Patient Safety Protocol that I set up in September 2008. The Protocol is managed by the Chief Medical Officer on my behalf as a medical assessment of any potential patient safety issues is required. In accordance with the Protocol, the Health Service Executive has investigated the case and made a report to my office, a copy of which has issued to the parents of the child in question. The HSE has expressed regret at the incident and has invited the parents to contact a named official if they have any further concerns.