Still time for children and young people to get vaccinated before start of new school year

Children and young people are being encouraged to get their Covid-19 vaccination before the start of the new school year.

Children can get a first dose of the vaccine from the day they turn 5 but must wait 12 weeks before getting their second dose. Parents will need to give consent, so should attend the vaccination appointment with their child.

Older children and adults can attend a walk-in or pop-up clinic to receive first, second and booster jabs. Alternatively, vaccinations can be booked online via the NHS national booking system or by calling 119.

Staffordshire County Council Cabinet Support Member for Health and Integrated Care Paul Northcott said: “Although Covid-19 rates are continually falling across the country, the virus is still with us and with the start of the school year, children will be mixing more which always has the potential for the virus to spread.

“The Covid-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the virus, and there is still time for children and young people to get their vaccinations in time for the new school year next week.

“The vaccines have all proven to be safe and highly effective, and I would encourage all parents with children, and young people themselves, to get their vaccine before school starts again.” 

People can find details of walk-in clinics at: www.nhs.uk/grab-a-jab.

More information on the vaccine can be found at: www.nhs.uk/coronavirusvaccine.