The Covid-19 vaccination of children aged 12 and up is underway.

However, the 12 -17 years old group will only get one dose of the Pfizer vaccine due to concerns about adverse effects. It relates to rare cases of myocarditis or the inflammation of the heart muscle appearing after the second dose.

Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla indicates that the administering of the second dose will be determined by more information on this matter. However, he maintains that the one jab remains effective.

Now most of those eligible for the vaccine are at high school which the minister believes will be beneficial as learners prepare for the end of year exams. He adds that at this stage there will be no special vaccination sites at schools.

Phaahla further notes that there is no need for parental consent for the vaccine citing the Children’s Act which allows those over the age of 12 years to consent to their own medical treatment provided that they are of sufficient maturity and have the mental capacity to understand the benefits, risks, social and other implications of the treatment.

He however has encouraged parents to have an open discussion with their kids about the “benefits” of the Covid-19 vaccine.

[Header image: Health Policy Watch]