Parents urged to get children vaccinated against COVID-19
The HSE has announced details of a local clinic as they advise parents of children aged between six months and 11 years to be vaccinated this winter season.
COVID-19 vaccines are recommended by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) for children aged 6 months to 4 years who have a health condition that puts them at high risk of severe illness if they get COVID-19.
For all children in this age group, the recommendation of NIAC is that the benefits of vaccination are greater than the risks from the vaccine, meaning this age group can be offered the vaccine.
The HSE advise that children aged 6 months to 11 years avail of the COVID-19 vaccination as it may avoid getting COVID-19, and offers extra protection from the rare risks of serious illness from COVID-19.
Vaccinating children could also reduce transmission to others in the household, for example, those with a weak immune system. Children who are vaccinated will be less likely to miss school and other activities because of COVID-19.
They will need two doses of the vaccine for the best possible protection against COVID-19. Children will get their second dose eight weeks after the first dose.
Sinead McConnell, General Manager, COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, CH CDLMS said “The HSE is urging parents and guardians of children aged six months to 11 years to avail of the COVID-19 vaccine this winter season. With Flu and RSV now circulating in our communities, vaccination against COVID-19 is the best protection against the virus."
Appointments can be made online by parents and guardians at https://www2.hse.ie/screening-and-vaccinations/covid-19-vaccine/get-the-vaccine/booking/.
Children’s COVID-19 clinics Cavan Monaghan:
Ballinagh Health Centre, Ballinagh, Co. Cavan, H12RK12
Friday, December 8:
12-1pm - six months to four years
1-2pm - five years to 11 years
Children’s Flu vaccine
The children’s Flu vaccine is available from participating GPs and Pharmacists for children aged 2-12 years. An extension of this year’s programme includes the vaccine being offered to children in Senior Infants and all children in Primary Age Special Schools this year.