The National Immunisation Advisory Committee has approved the use of Covid-19 vaccines in children aged 5 to 11.
The advice was given to government today, and the Health Minister has accepted its recommendations.
Up to now, vaccines had only been approved for use in people aged 12 and older.
The Taoiseach recently said he expects the rollout of vaccines to those aged five to 11 to start in the new year.
NIAC approves the use of Pfizer Covid vaccines in the 5-11 year old age group. Says priority should be given to those with an underlying condition or who live with younger children with complex medical needs or immunocompromised adults
— Seán Defoe (@SeanDefoe) December 8, 2021
Varadkar's "High Confidence"
Meanwhile, the Tanaiste says rolling out Covid-19 vaccines to children will be a massive challenge.
The National Immunisation Advisory Committee has approved the use of Covid-19 vaccines in children aged 5 to 11.
It's expected the immunisation of under 12s won't begin until the new year.
Tainaiste Leo Varadkar says it will be up to parents to decide whether or not to vaccinate their child.
It is going to be massive challenge.
But I think it's fair to say the HSE has done a very good job to date on the vaccine programme.
I've no doubt that there's going to be wrinkles and there's going to be issues as we go along.
But I've very high confidence in the HSE to get the third doses out.
To everyone who needs them, which is the adult population, and to get the first doses to the children as well.
