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The Government has confirmed the full schedule for the launch of the coronavirus vaccine in Ireland.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has also confirmed that the jab will be free for everyone.
He said: “The recent news from vaccine developers is a ray of hope after a very difficult year. Vaccination is a highly effective intervention to save lives and promote good health.
“Of course, the safety and efficacy of vaccines is our top priority and any COVID-19 vaccine administered in Ireland will have to be licensed by the European Medicines Agency.
“While we await news on whether these vaccines meet all EMA requirements for quality, safety and efficacy, the Government has been working early on plans for the launch of vaccines.
“A key part of the rollout will be ensuring that those most vulnerable to COVID-19 get their vaccines first.
“Given the country’s experience with COVID-19 to date and the risks that vulnerable people and those in front-line positions in health and social care continue to face, it is only fair that they be prioritized in the allocation of vaccines.
“The government has followed the advice of our leading medical experts.”
Here is a complete summary of who will be given priority to receive the vaccine according to the recently published Interim Vaccine Allocation Groups document and the reasons they are given priority.
Adults over 65 years of age residing in long-term care facilities
These people are considered to be at the highest risk of serious illness and death.
During the first wave of COVID-19 in Ireland, 56% of deaths occurred in this environment.
Front-line healthcare workers in direct patient contact roles or who are at risk of exposure to body fluids or aerosols and those who provide essential services for the vaccination program
These workers are at very high or high risk of exposure or transmission of the disease.
In the first wave, more than 30% of the cases corresponded to health workers.
People aged 70 and over in the following order: 85 years or over, 80-84, 75-79, 70-74
Older people are at higher risk of hospitalization and death from the virus.
Other healthcare workers who are not in direct contact with the patient
These staff members provide essential health services and protect patients.
People ages 65-69, with priority for people with medical conditions that put them at high risk for serious illness.
This group is at increased risk of hospitalization and death from COVID.
Key workers
They provide essential services for economic and social activity.
The definition of key workers will be further refined.
Those ages 18 to 64 with medical conditions that put them at high risk for serious illness.
They are at higher risk of being hospitalized for the disease.
Long-term care facility residents ages 18-64
There is a high risk of transmission in these settings and this group may be potentially vulnerable and unable to protect their own interests.
People between the ages of 18 and 64 who live working in crowded accommodation where self-isolation and social distancing are difficult to maintain
Disadvantaged sociodemographic groups are more likely to experience a higher burden of infection.
Key workers in essential jobs who cannot avoid a high risk of exposure to COVID-19.
These workers are at high risk of exposure as they cannot work without physical distancing.
This group includes workers in the food supply system, public and commercial transportation, and other vital services.
Elementary and Second Level Teachers and Staff, Special Needs Aides, Child Care Workers, Maintenance Workers, and School Bus Drivers
Maintain open full-time education for all children who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic.
People from 55 to 64 years old
This is based on the risk of hospitalization compared to younger age groups.
Ethical principles
The principles of moral equality, minimizing harm and justice are applied.
Those in occupations important to the functioning of society.
These include people working in third-tier institutions, entertainment industries, and goods production who work in environments where protective measures can be followed without much difficulty.
People aged 18 to 54 years who did not have access to the vaccine in previous phases
If the evidence shows that the vaccine prevents transmission, priority will be given to those 18 to 34 years old due to their higher level of social contact and their role in transmission.
Children, adolescents up to 18 years of age and pregnant women
The vaccine will only be administered to this group if evidence shows its safety and efficacy.
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