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Vaccine Uptake Concerns Highlighted at Health Committee Meeting
Declining vaccine uptake rates among Irish students and the absence of free shingles vaccines for older adults were key topics at a recent Health Service Executive (HSE) meeting, where officials expressed concern about the impact of misinformation on public health initiatives.
HSE Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Colm Henry identified “disinformation” as a significant factor contributing to lower-than-expected vaccination rates among first-year students. Though uptake has partially recovered from previous lows, it remains below historical levels that once provided stronger community protection.
During the committee session, Fine Gael Senator Martin Conway questioned why student vaccination rates weren’t higher. In response, Dr. Lucy Jessop of the HSE outlined ongoing efforts to increase teenage vaccination rates, emphasizing that vaccines are most effective when administered before age 15.
“A catch-up programme is now underway for fifth and sixth year students and will also be available during the summer,” Dr. Jessop explained, highlighting the HSE’s strategy to address vaccination gaps among older adolescents.
The meeting also addressed concerns regarding childhood vaccination rates, which continue to fall below World Health Organization targets. Dr. Henry noted that uptake of the MMR vaccine measured at 24 months stands at 87.6 percent, while the 6-in-1 vaccine reaches 90.4 percent—both below the 95 percent threshold required for effective herd immunity.
Labour TD Marie Sherlock raised questions about the lack of free shingles vaccines for older people, an issue that has drawn criticism from health advocates. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mary Horgan acknowledged the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness but indicated that affordability remains the primary obstacle to wider implementation.
“The Department is working with the HSE to see if there are certain groups who could be offered it for free,” Dr. Horgan stated, with Dr. Henry suggesting that immunocompromised individuals might be prioritized if the HSE extends coverage.
When asked about claims that the shingles vaccine might reduce dementia risk, Dr. Horgan clarified that it is currently only licensed specifically for protection against shingles, though its potential role in dementia prevention is being investigated as part of a broader study.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Henry highlighted several vaccination successes from the past winter. “Through our winter vaccine programme, we protected over a million people from serious complications of seasonal flu infection, including almost 50,000 more children than the previous year,” he reported. The program achieved above-target vaccination coverage among especially vulnerable populations, with 91 percent of adults aged 80+ and 83 percent of those in long-term care facilities receiving protection.
The HSE also reported progress in protecting infants from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) through immunization with Nirsevimab, reaching 88 percent of newborns. Early data suggests significant benefits, with previous programs showing a 60 percent reduction in emergency department presentations and a 71 percent reduction in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit admissions.
Looking ahead, Dr. Henry announced plans to introduce a selective BCG vaccination program in 2026, beginning with infants under 12 months of age in higher-risk groups, as part of the HSE National TB Strategy.
GSK, the pharmaceutical company that manufactures the shingles vaccine, expressed support for a national immunization program in a statement. “Fifteen European countries have introduced a national immunisation programme for Shingles, delivering a recognised return on investment while safeguarding the health and dignity of older citizens,” a company spokesperson said, noting that their offer to the Department of Health could have enabled implementation of such a program.
The spokesperson also referenced the Programme for Government’s recommendation to expand the national immunisation programme in accordance with National Immunisation Advisory Committee guidelines, emphasizing the importance of extending vaccination success from pediatric to adult populations.
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11 Comments
Vaccines are one of our best defenses against preventable diseases. It’s worrying that misinformation is undermining vaccination programs and putting public health at risk. I hope the catch-up efforts can help get more students vaccinated.
Agreed, vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation is a major public health concern that needs to be addressed urgently. Evidence-based education and outreach will be crucial.
Vaccines are one of our most powerful public health tools. It’s worrying that misinformation is undermining vaccination programs, putting communities at risk. I hope the catch-up efforts can help get more students vaccinated before it’s too late.
Agreed, vaccination gaps need to be addressed quickly. Widespread misinformation is a serious threat to public health that requires a proactive, evidence-based response from authorities.
Vaccines save lives, yet misinformation is undermining their use. This is a troubling trend that needs to be addressed. I’m glad to see the health authorities working to improve access and education around the HPV vaccine.
Concerning to hear about declining vaccine uptake rates, especially for HPV which is so important for preventing certain cancers. Misinformation is a real challenge, though I’m glad to see health authorities are working to improve access and education.
It’s worrying to see declining HPV vaccine uptake, especially given the vaccine’s proven benefits. Misinformation seems to be a major driver here. I hope the catch-up efforts can help get more students vaccinated before it’s too late.
This is a disappointing development. The HPV vaccine is so important for cancer prevention, yet misinformation seems to be driving down uptake. I hope the health authorities can find effective ways to counter these false narratives.
This is a concerning trend. Vaccines are safe and effective, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. I hope the health authorities can find ways to counter the spread of vaccine misinformation and get more students vaccinated.
Declining vaccination rates are very concerning, especially for critical vaccines like HPV that protect against serious diseases. Misinformation is clearly a significant factor here. I hope the authorities can mount an effective response.
Declining vaccination rates are troubling, especially for something like the HPV vaccine which protects against serious diseases. Misinformation is a real challenge, but I’m glad to see officials working to improve access and education.