THE HSE HAS confirmed that there is currently a shortage in BCG vaccinations in Ireland.

Dublin Councillor David McGuinness had said today that parents in his constituency had been told that the latest round of vaccinations were going to be the last for “an unspecified period of time” due to shortages.

In response to a query from TheJournal.ie, the HSE confirmed that there are Europe-wide shortages “due to problems with the vaccine supplier”.

“It is anticipated that the vaccine will be available in mid to late July, and those who require the vaccine will be vaccinated over the summer months,” it said. “The BCG vaccine will continue to be offered to newborns and those at greatest risk.”

The HSE previously had difficulties with vaccines in 2007 and 2008 because the only company supplying the European market had regulatory issues.

“The fact that this issue has now resurfaced is a major cause for concern,” Councillor McGuinness commented today. He called on the HSE to look at alternative sources for the supplies of the vaccine.

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