Winter flu vaccine supply
Deputy Daly said Kerry GPs could not obtain winter flu vaccine supplies and asked the Government to intervene. The Tánaiste replied that demand had exceeded supply, doses were being prioritised for those most at risk, and uptake among children was disappointingly low.
Anyone could have predicted that there would be a major uptake in the winter flu vaccine programme this year. The Government's winter plan even committed to a large expansion the scheme. However, GPs in Kerry are contacting me to say that they cannot get their hands on the vaccine. They believe it might be arriving at the beginning of December, but they are not sure. They need clarity. I am asking that the Tánaiste intervene to ensure that there is a supply as soon as possible.
Comment on this
The winter flu vaccine programme has been a success and more people in Ireland will be vaccinated against the flu this year than ever before. However, notwithstanding the fact that we ordered more doses than in previous years, demand has exceeded supply and we must prioritise those who are most at risk. There are more doses available, but they have to be prioritised for obvious reasons.
Unfortunately, we have not seen a great uptake in the flu vaccine for kids. This is disappointing. Only 20% or thereabouts of that vaccine has been used. It is a nasal vaccine for children. Unlike Covid, children are spreaders of the flu. We would like to see more kids availing of the vaccine. I would encourage parents to take their kids to the pharmacy or GP so that they and others can be protected.