Posted on Monday 4th April 2022
More children aged 5 and over can now get a Covid-19 vaccine.
Previously only high-risk children under the age of 16 could get vaccinated, but the NHS has now extended eligibility to allow more children to get protected. Parents and children can book an appointment at a vaccination centre or pharmacy, or wait to be contacted by their GP.
Staffordshire’s latest 7-day case rate stands at 891.9, higher than the England and West Midlands average.
Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care, Dr Johnny McMahon, welcomed the vaccine news and urged parents to support their children to get the vaccine.
“More of the population getting vaccinated will help to weaken Covid’s ability to spread through our communities and cause health complications to residents. Although most children in the 5-15 age group won’t be at risk of serious health complications from Covid, by getting vaccinated they’ll help to increase immunity in the population and protect others such as their parents, grandparents and teachers.
“I’d urge all parents to support their child to get vaccinated. This virus has not gone away and getting the vaccine is still the best way to protect yourselves and others.”
Children can get a 1st dose of the vaccine from the day they turn 5 years old and most will be able to get a 2nd dose 12 weeks after their 1st dose.
Mass free testing and self-isolation rules have now ended in England but people are urged to stay at home and reduce contact with others if they develop coronavirus symptoms. Rapid Covid-19 tests are available to purchase at a number of supermarkets and high street pharmacies.
Face coverings are no longer mandatory but are still recommended in busy, crowded places such as shops and on public transport, where close contact with others is more likely. Meeting people outdoors, or keeping rooms well ventilated when meeting indoors, is also advised to help reduce the risk of spreading infection.
Further Covid-19 vaccine information and booking details can be found online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirusvaccine.
Updated Covid-19 guidance can be found at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.