New recommendations have been accepted in relation to Ireland’s COVID-19 vaccination programme and will shortly be put in place.

The National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) has recommended:

  • a first mRNA booster vaccine for those aged 5-11 years who are immunocompromised
  • a second mRNA booster vaccine for those aged 50-64 years
  • a second mRNA booster vaccine for those aged 12-49 years who have an underlying medical condition or are residents of long-term care facilities
  • a second mRNA booster vaccine for pregnant women at 16 weeks or later who have not already received a booster vaccine in their current pregnancy
  • a second mRNA booster vaccine for healthcare workers
  • a third mRNA booster vaccine for those aged 65 years and older, and those aged 12-64 years who are immunocompromised

hse boosterCOVID-19 vaccines may be given at the same time as the seasonal influenza vaccines. Booster doses should be given 4 months after a previous COVID-19 vaccine dose or a previous natural infection.

A booster dose after an infection has been shown to provide additional protection.

It continues to be recommended that people get and complete their primary vaccine course and booster shot(s) if they haven’t already done so.

The Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly reminds us: “The main purpose of vaccination is to prevent serious illness, hospitalisation and death. Hybrid immunity resulting from infection and booster vaccination confers stronger protection than infection alone.”

The Department of Health and the HSE will now work to operationalise these updates. More information at the www.gov.ie website.