The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has partnered with relevant healthcare authorities to launch the administration of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to children aged 5 to 11 years. It will be a two-dose vaccination regime, with the second dose being given three weeks after the first one.

The decision has been taken part of the UAE's post-COVID-19 recovery plan, aimed at vaccinating 100 percent of the target groups It is an affirmation of the country's proactive response against COVID-19 with the aim of ensuring the health and safety of community members.

In a statement issued by the ministry, the authorities have specified that the vaccine is voluntary and not mandatory. The ministry also affirmed that the decision has been made on the basis of clinical evidence and strict evaluation in compliance with approved regional and international regulations.

The ministry reassured that vaccines are highly safe and effective for protection against COVID-19 infection. It has reiterated that vaccination is one of the best tools to boost immunity, prevent complications, limit the need for hospitalisation and protect the community, particularly in view of the emergence of new variants.

"The clinical trials of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which has recently been approved by the ministry, have proven its safety and effectiveness for children. For several decades, children around the globe have been receiving safe vaccines against various diseases and viruses, and COVID-19 vaccines, including Pfizer, are no different than those vaccines," said Dr. Hussein Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary of Public Health Sector at Ministry of Health and Prevention and Chairman of the National Committee for the Implementation of the Provisions of International Health Regulations and Prevention of Pandemics.

Dr. Al Rand added that the decision was taken after carefully reviewing relevant studies to boost the recovery of the country from COVID-19 and expand immunisation of the wider community. The ministry has also urged all parents to visit vaccine centres to get their children immunised against COVID-19. He clarified that vaccinating children will protect their health and those around them, especially the elderly. At the same time, it will boost the efforts towards achieving herd immunity to limit the spread of the virus.

Dr. Al Rand also pointed out that the UAE has topped the global indicators in efficiently handling the pandemic. He lauded the UAE leadership's consistent guidance and support along with the exceptional efforts of the health authorities that helped in implementing robust vaccination campaigns, early detection of confirmed cases, and rapid intervention to limit complications.

"The UAE has also one of the fastest vaccination campaigns, which is a significant achievement for the country demonstrating that it is one of the most important successful global models," he added.

WAM