A two-year-old Co Louth boy has died from septicaemia as a result of contracting haemophilias influenza, Group B even though it is understood the child had been vaccinated against the disease.
It is believed this is the first death due to the failure of the vaccine.
The child was brought by its parents to Our Lady of Lourdes hospital in Drogheda several days ago.
The child was examined in the Accident and Emergency Department and eventually discharged.
The family, who are believed to live on the outskirts of the town, then left the country on holiday. While they were there, the child took ill and subsequently died abroad.
It has been confirmed that the child died as a result of contracted haemophilias influenza, Group B Septicaemia which is closely linked to meningitis.
The HSE North-East says the hospital has carried out an initial review of its handling of the case. A full review will be carried out later with the assistance of the family and detailed medical information.
A spokesperson for the HSE said that public health doctors were carrying out follow-up measures in the community with other children.
They said that parents with young children should be aware of the signs of meningitis and septicaemia infection. Medical help should be sought by any concerned parent.
RTÉ News understands that the HSE still has yet to purchase the booster vaccines recommended last July by a panel of experts.
A spokesperson for the HSE, however, said they were in the process of purchasing them and insisted they would be available through doctors by November.
The HSE has expressed its sympathy to the family.
