Minister confirms vaccination for staff in special schools

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey today confirmed that the priority Swine flu vaccination programme will include some staff in special schools for severe learning disabilities.

Those staff who provide personal care for pupils at these schools will be offered the vaccine from this week.

The Minister said: “At present, we have a limited supply of vaccines and our first priority must be to protect those most at risk from the complications of swine flu. This is why 2,500 children in over 20 special schools for severe learning disability across Northern Ireland were offered the vaccine as a matter of urgency last week. This is now largely completed.

“The staff who provide personal care to the vulnerable children within special schools for severe learning disability are doing similar work as frontline health and social care workers. Therefore I believe that this move will further protect this vulnerable group of children and young people.

“I have asked the Public Health Agency to make arrangements to offer vaccine to this group of staff as quickly as possible.”

From this week, arrangements have also been made for other children with special needs and underlying physical health conditions, who are not in special schools to be offered the vaccine.

The Minister continued: “GPs will now begin to prioritise our supplies of the Swine flu vaccination to ensure those most at risk are protected first.

“The Swine flu vaccination programme remains the best way to protect the most vulnerable people in our society. I would encourage all those who are offered the vaccine to get it. Protect yourself, protect those at risk and get the vaccine.”

Notes to editors:

1. The Northern Ireland swine flu helpline number 0800 0514 142 is a freephone helpline for those who want more information about swine flu. Textphone 18001 0800 0 514 142. The UK-wide flu information line on 0800 1 513 513 provides regularly updated advice on swine flu. This is a freephone number.

2. Further information about swine flu can be found on the DHSSPS website and nidirect

3. Media enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0571. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.