Vaccine update: vaccinations to protect 5 - 11 year olds
We all want to get back to normal – we want our children to go to school, do the things they love and catch up on lost time spent time with family and friends. But COVID-19 is still active and causing some children to miss out on their education and things they enjoy.
The JCVI is recommending that 5–11-year-olds be offered the vaccine, which has been approved by the UK’s medicines regulator, to boost immunity and increase their protection against any future waves of COVID-19.
Why not use the half-term break to book a COVID-19 vaccination for your child?
You can now get your child vaccinated at a site and time convenient for you – at vaccination centres, pharmacies and GPs offering jabs for this age group. You can view these sites and make an appointment through the National Booking Service or by calling 119.
Some walk-in sites in Barnet and neighbouring boroughs are also available to vaccinate this age group and older siblings, or other family members, can be vaccinated together at the same time. Simply check the walk-in finder website before attending to make sure they can vaccinate your child.
Children aged 5-11 with no other underlying health conditions will be offered two paediatric (child) doses of the vaccine, with at least 12 weeks between doses. A paediatric dose is smaller than doses given to those aged 12 and over. If a child has had COVID-19 they will still get extra protection from the vaccine, but they will need to wait 12 weeks before getting vaccinated.
Those 5-11 year-olds who are more at risk from the virus can already get two paediatric (child) doses, eight weeks apart, and their GP or hospital specialist should be in touch to arrange this.
COVID-19 vaccines are now available to all 5-11 year olds and are offered for this age group at several walk-in sites in Barnet and nearby boroughs.
Find your nearest walk-in centre
COVID-19 is usually mild in most children, but it can make some children unwell. Vaccinating children can reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection to your child and those around them.
You can visit any walk-in clinic that is convenient to you – your nearest option might be in a different borough. See the Grab a Jab site for more options.
- Second doses for ages 18+ can be given 8 weeks after the first dose.
- Second doses for ages 12 – 17 can be given from 12 weeks after the first dose.
- Boosters for ages 16+ can be given from 3 months after the second dose.
- Spring boosters for ages 75+ and immunosuppressed can be given around 6 months after previous dose.
