Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1048. To ask the Minister for Health the actions currently in hand to ensure that older persons are protected against influenza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54685/22]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1049. To ask the Minister for Health in the context of the current influenza season in the southern hemisphere, with Australia facing its worst flu season in five years, the steps he has in mind for this jurisdiction for the flu season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54686/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1048 and 1049 together.

The delivery of the influenza vaccination programme and the COVID 19 vaccination programme have been identified as key priorities in the HSE Winter Plan 2022/2023. Vaccination is proven to be the best protection against COVID19 and influenza and their potentially serious complications.

The 2022/23 influenza immunisation programme commenced on 3 October 2022. Operational responsibility for the rollout of the flu vaccine lies with the HSE. The flu vaccine is available free of charge to adults over 65 years, individuals in specified at-risk groups and children aged from 2 to 17. This programme ensures that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza will have access to the flu vaccination without a charge.

There are two types of flu vaccine available this year. The nasal spray flu vaccine is available for children and an injectable vaccine is available for all other eligible groups.

Over 2,500 GPs and Pharmacies are administering the free HSE flu vaccines this season. Residents of HIQA registered Nursing Homes and all house-bound patients will be offered the flu vaccine from a HSE mobile vaccination team.

Further information on the at-risk groups can be found through the following link: Getting the flu vaccine - HSE.ie

www2.hse.ie/conditions/flu/getting-the-vaccine/