Dublin: The Health Service Executive (HSE) has announced that the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine will be included in Ireland’s childhood immunisation programme for all babies born on or after October 1, 2024. This vaccine will be administered within the first 12 months of life. Additionally, the HSE has confirmed that general practitioners (GPs) will provide the second dose of the chickenpox vaccine to infants at no cost.
Dr. Chantal Migone, a consultant in public health medicine at the HSE National Immunisation Office, explained that chickenpox is a common illness, with around 90% of children contracting the virus by the age of 10. While typically a mild disease, it can lead to severe complications in some cases. “Vaccination offers the best protection for children, helping prevent serious complications such as pneumonia and septicaemia,” Dr. Migone noted.
Last year, 170 individuals in Ireland were hospitalised due to chickenpox, with over 100 of those cases involving children under the age of 10. In 2022, 75 cases required hospitalisation. Dr. Migone highlighted the positive impact of vaccination, stating that after two doses, immunity can last for 20 years or more.
The National Immunisation Advisory Committee encourages parents to seek specialist advice if they have concerns about vaccinating their child. Dr. Migone assured that parents can make informed decisions about the vaccine based on professional guidance.
Updated Vaccine Schedule
The new immunisation schedule will see some changes to existing vaccines:
– The meningitis MenC vaccine, previously administered at 6 months, will be replaced by the chickenpox vaccine, given at 12 months.
– At 13 months, the current Hib/MenC vaccine will be substituted with the 6-in-1 MenC vaccine.
The HSE has clarified that there will be no increase in the number of GP visits required under the updated schedule.
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