No childhood vaccine uptake figures as GHA lacks dedicated database

The Gibraltar Health Authority is currently unable to provide childhood vaccination uptake rates because it does not have a dedicated Childhood Information System.

In response to GBC questions, it says the development of such a system is being explored by the GHA’s Digital Transformation Committee.

According to the Government, introducing the system would involve developing a complex IT platform, as well as specialist IT and public health input to ensure it is appropriately designed and implemented.

The Government says Gibraltar has not seen any recent clusters or outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, although it noted this does not include seasonal influenza.

In answer to GBC questions on vaccine hesitancy, it says feedback from parents regarding vaccines is gathered through Health Visitors and midwifery services and reviewed by the quarterly Immunisation Committee.

The Government also says it could not comment on whether a maternal RSV vaccination programme will be introduced until the Health Minister’s budget’s speech.

Meanwhile, it says the possible addition of the chickenpox vaccine to Gibraltar’s routine childhood immunisation schedule was considered as part of preparations for the current financial year’s estimates. 

The GHA has previously said it expects to introduce the MMRV vaccine next year.

The chickenpox vaccine was introduced in the UK in January.