Vulnerable children 'forgotten' in Covid-19 vaccine rollout

Cher_Alumni
Cher_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 5,714 Championing
edited March 2021 in Everyday life

In a Guardian article written by journalist, Dr Frances Ryan, concerns have been raised about the overlooking of disabled children in the covid-19 vaccine rollout.  


The backs of three children holding hands in a park

Focusing on under 16's who have underlying health conditions that deem them 'clinically extremely vulnerable', Ryan writes:
The country has met its target of vaccinating the most clinically vulnerable adults, but under-16s are not eligible as current vaccines have not been licensed for minors.
While most children are relatively unaffected by coronavirus and are unlikely to become unwell with the infection, children with underlying health conditions can be at risk of serious illness. Many disabled children have been shielding since last March to stay safe, and have missed a year of school.

These concerns are echoed by James Taylor, Executive Director of Social Change at Scope, who cites stripped back support, education and social care of this group over lockdown as reflecting a gulf in government priorities.  

For those with children who fall into this demographic, the article advises: 
For a very small number of children at a higher risk of catching the virus and serious illness, the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that vaccination can be appropriate.
“JCVI advises that this is a decision for doctors and clinicians to make on a case-by-case basis and should be carefully discussed between a child’s parents or carers and their GP.”

Is this an issue that has caused you worry?  Has your child been given the vaccine?  Let us know in the comments below.

Comments

  • Lisatho11987777
    Lisatho11987777 Scope Member Posts: 5,874 Championing
    It gets confusing realy as they say children under 16 can't have it at the moment. 


Categories