By Sue-Ann Wayow
CHILDREN between the ages of 12 and 18 who are fully vaccinated with the Covid-19 Pfizer vaccine can get a booster shot from Friday.
This was announced by Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh on Wednesday at the Ministry of Health’s virtual Covid-19 update.
He made the announcement following approval from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The minister said while there were just over 55,000 persons in that age bracket who were considered fully vaccinated, a percentage would be able to get their third shot from Friday as persons have to be fully vaccinated at least six months prior to getting a booster.
Deyalsingh said medical officials including Chief Medical Officer Dr Roshan Parasram met on Monday and have also signed off on the approval for the booster and regional health authorities have been informed.
He said, “Our sites are being prepped. Just to let parents know, you need to come in with your kids, the usual parental consent and the boosters will be available to those children who received their vaccines six months ago. So, if you have received your second shot, less than six months, please do not come in to get boosted.”
Deyalsingh urged parents of children in that age especially of those who were immunocompromised and were unsure of whether or not the booster should be taken, that they speak with their paediatrician or family physician.
“Those boosters are highly recommended for those sub-populations of the 12 to 18,” he encouraged.
When asked if there will be sufficient vaccines to be distributed as a third dose, Deyalsingh replied yes.
He said, “We are reserving some doses for that and we have more than enough stock.”
First-dose Pfizer vaccination programme paused
The minister also said that from June 5, the administering of first dose of a Pfizer vaccine would be stopped and that second shots and boosters will continue until the end of June.
Deyalsingh said the current batch of Pfizer vaccines expire at the end of June and as a result the cut of date was set.
“We have to stop at the 5th of June to allow 21 days so persons can get their second shot.” he said.
