Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

161. To ask the Minister for Health to outline his views on the uncertainty regarding new-born babies who are facing increased risk of infection because of the shortage of the BCG or tuberculosis vaccine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19000/15]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

BCG vaccine is currently part of the primary childhood immunisation schedule and is provided by the HSE for newborn babies. It is given to prevent the most serious forms of Tuberculosis in children (such as TB meningitis). The vaccine is given by HSE community doctors in health centres or maternity hospitals as it is administered intradermally, (which requires specific training and expertise).

There is only one licensed supplier of BCG vaccine in the EU who have informed the HSE that the delivery of BCG vaccine due in March 2015 has been further delayed and will not now be delivered into Ireland until late June at the earliest. BCG vaccination clinics in HSE Clinics and Maternity hospitals have been deferred until new stock arrives. The HSE is in close contact with the vaccine manufacturer to expedite delivery of new stock as soon as possible and local Health Centres will arrange appointments for BCG vaccination clinics when the BCG vaccine supply is restored.

No cases of TB were reported in Ireland in children less than 4 years of age in 2014. There is no threat to public health from this temporary vaccine shortage.