InternationalNews

South Africa vaccinating 12 to 17 year-olds

South Africa has become the first African country to roll out a vaccination programme for children, as 12 to 17 year-olds can now receive the Pfizer jab in the country.

However, they will only be allowed to receive one dose.

South Africa’s National Health Department aims to vaccinate at least half of the country’s 6.5 million children aged between 12 and 17, who before mid-January when schools reopen.

South African law provides that children aged 12 and older can consent to their own medical treatment, but, it is recommended that parents have open discussions with them about the benefits of the Covid-19 vaccine to assist in making an informed choice.

Children have also been encouraged to attend their jab appointment with parents.

To register, the eligible children must bring their IDs or birth certificates with registration number, passport or refugee and asylum number.

According to South Africa’s National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) data, almost 12% of coronavirus cases are in children under the age of 19.

Source:Fiilafmonline/BBC

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