At the Rye vaccination centre, we await detailed instructions about the start of the 3rd (or booster) Covid vaccinations, which the government now says will be offered to people aged 50 and over, those in care homes and frontline health and social care workers. The vaccine minister said that this will be the “final piece of the jigsaw” in the UK’s bid to end the pandemic.
Meanwhile, as vaccination continues for the 16 and 17 year-olds, the government has also announced that children aged 12 to 15 will be offered the Covid vaccine. Although details of the programme in Sussex are not yet clear, it is likely that this age group will be offered a first Pfizer jab “as soon as possible” with the programme led by “in-school vaccination services”. A second injection might be given once more evidence is gathered, but probably not before the spring 2022.
The government has emphasized that the Covid vaccine is “an offer” to children of 12 to 15 year-olds. The vaccine will not be compulsory as parents will be asked to give consent. However, if the child and parent have different views, the child can give consent themselves “if they are considered competent”.
Winter flu jabs are available by booking through local GPs or chemists. The NHS reports that there is no conflict between these and Covid vaccines.
Image Credits: Anthony Kimber .