The first groups to get the COVID-19 vaccine are:
The vaccine will be offered to more priority groups as soon as possible after this. When vaccination of further groups in the community is rolled out there will be a media information campaign advising patients how they can register to receive their COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccines licensing and approval
There are two COVID-19 vaccines licensed for use in Ireland. A number of other vaccines are in the final stages of licensing and approval. Vaccines are tested for safety and effectiveness before they can be used. The HSE only uses a vaccine if it meets the required standards of safety and effectiveness. Vaccines will be given to priority groups first. As other vaccines come through the licensing process, we will offer the vaccine to the next priority groups until we make it available to the general population.
Priority group 1
People aged 65 and older who live in long-term care facilities People over 65 who live in long-term care facilities are the first priority group to get the COVID-19 vaccine. This is because they have a greater risk of serious illness if they get COVID-19. Start date: 4 January End date: 28 February is our target end date for vaccinating priority group 1 The schedule for long-term care facilities will change from week to week and might be delayed if there is an outbreak of COVID at the site.
Priority group 2
Frontline healthcare workers Frontline healthcare workers are the second priority group to get the COVID-19 vaccine. This is because they have a greater risk of becoming infected with COVID-19.
Later phases of the COVID-19 vaccination programme
Later phases will focus on the next priority groups. People may be vaccinated through:
- mass vaccination clinics
- GP surgeries
- community pharmacies
HSE website for further information on COVID-19 Vaccination Programme – View HSE Covid-19 Vaccination Program Website In the meantime, it is essential that people adhere to Public health advise – View The HSE Covid-19 Public Health Advice Website