According to the Minister of Health, Kim Wilson, parents are “keen to have their younger children vaccinated”, in a bid to avoid COVID-19.
The Minister announced today (Feb 7) the vaccination would become available for children aged 5 to 11, when “2,000 paediatric doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine” arrives here later this month.
“With respect to our vaccination programme, in recent weeks, we have fielded many questions from parent’s keen to have their younger children vaccinated,” said Ms Wilson.
“We are pleased to report that their wait is over.
“The United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has confirmed that on February 19, 2022, they will be providing to Bermuda 2,000 paediatric doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5-11.
“This is welcoming news as we can soon offer the COVID-19 vaccine to those parents who wish to have their children immunized. More details as to how and when to register your child will be provided in the coming days.”
The announcement came after the Government’s decision to relax COVID restricitons against the pandemic last week, including SafeKey requirements for clubs, bars and restaurants.
But the Minister noted that the requirement for them to collect contact tracing information remains in effect.
“Contact tracing is an essential part of controlling outbreaks and the main way to stop any further spread,” she added.
The changes, announced in the Lower House last Friday, also raised the limit on large groups, including weddings and funerals, from 20 to 100.
Ms Wilson concluded: “We must keep doing our part to keep each other safe and to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
“As always, to decrease the odds of getting the coronavirus, increase fresh air ventilation wherever possible when indoors and avoid the three ‘Cs’: closed spaces, crowded places and close contact settings.
“Follow Public Health guidelines, wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, and maintain physical distance.”
