9 February 2022
The NHS is working hard to make it as easy and comfortable as possible for eligible young children to get their COVID-19 vaccine.
Following the recent advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccine and Immunisation (JCVI), children aged five to 11 who are at greater risk from the virus, or who live with someone who is immunosuppressed, will be able to get a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
This includes children with severe neurodisabilities, weakened immune systems, profound and multiple or severe learning disabilities, Down’s syndrome, and other long-term serious conditions. Dedicated clinics have been set up across the area to cater for young children, with specially-trained staff and specific areas or sessions set aside just for younger children and their families.
All eligible children will be offered two 10-microgram doses of the Pfizer vaccine, which will be administered eight weeks apart. Each vaccine is a third of the dose of vaccine that is given to older children and adults. Parents and guardians of those eligible will be contacted directly by local NHS teams to arrange an appointment from this week.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS BCWB CCG, said: “We are delighted to be able to start inviting children aged five to 11 who may be vulnerable to COVID-19, to get their vaccine.
“COVID-19 can make some children very poorly, especially if they have other conditions and are more vulnerable to serious illness. Having the vaccine means that they are less likely to become very ill if they do catch the virus, and potentially reduces the risk of transmission.
“Like all children’s vaccines, this approval was given following a robust review of data showing that it is safe and effective to use for children in this age group.
“We know that getting vaccinated can be daunting for some people, particularly children and young people who may be scared of needles. That’s why we have dedicated teams at our sites offering vaccines to 5-11-year-olds, to make the process as easy as possible for young children and also their families.
“The vaccine is the best protection we have against this virus and I would encourage all parents and guardians who have children eligible for a vaccine to come forward as soon as they’re invited.
“If you have any concerns or questions about getting your child vaccinated, please speak to a clinician at the vaccination site.”