On February 21, 2020 i blogged here about how 'Ireland should make the Flu Vaccine Free for All'. I thought this because the risk of Covid was high enough to make it really worthwhile this year. It seems that there is now not enough flu vaccine to meet demand in Ireland this year.
I wrote to various politicians. Including current Health Minister Stephen Donnelly.
22 Feb 2020, 17:58 |  | |||
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Dear Mr Donnelly
Congratulations on your reelection as a TD.
I would like you to consider it be Fianna Fáil policy for the government to offer free flu vaccines to everyone in Ireland this autumn.
Firstly, Research from Canada says offering such free flu vaccination is cost effective[1]. Secondly, Ireland has particular issues with hospital overcrowding during flu season which makes reducing these cases very valuable to us. Thirdly, possible covid19 spread means any spare capacity we can get in our health system is particularly valuable this year[2].
Orders for doses of flu vaccines have to be made relatively soon. I understand the process of forming a government at the moment makes making such an increased ordering decision for use this Autumn more difficult.
Thank you for your attention.
Best regards,
[1] Systematic review of the cost-effectiveness of influenza immunization programs by Eon Edward Kwokho Ting https://tspace.library.
And his office replied
Dear David,
We thank you for your correspondence, and considerate thinking.
I have raised your concerns and proposals with Stephen Donnelly.
Kind regards,
Office of Stephen Donnelly T.D.
There could be many reasons that there is not enough flu vaccine this year. But I think this exchange shows that 'No one thought or suggested before March that we would need more flu vaccines' is not a reason.
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