Vaccinating children against Covid: You have your say on whether youngsters should be covered by programme

From following the science to concerns over long term side effects – these were among the views when we asked whether children should be given a coronavirus jab.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

The question came after the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) said children could be vaccinated against Covid-19 as a way of preventing disruption to their education, with a decision expected in later in the summer.

The University of Oxford is carrying out a clinical trial on children to test the safety and efficacy of its vaccine in younger age groups, with initial results expected in the summer.

Read More
Free twice-weekly Covid tests to be offered to everyone in England
Readers have had their say on whether children should be given a Covid-19 vaccination.Readers have had their say on whether children should be given a Covid-19 vaccination.
Readers have had their say on whether children should be given a Covid-19 vaccination.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It comes after Pfizer said trials of its Covid vaccine in children aged 12 to 15 showed 100% efficacy and a strong immune response.

Here’s what Gazette readers had to say over the issue:

Kerry Walker said: “Nope, not enough research and no way would I offer my child up as a test subject.”

Allison Forster added: “Thinking the two tests they have at home is good enough. Still think they are too young yet to get this jab.”

Lisa Ball wrote: “Follow the science. When it’s safe to vaccinate the children, I’m sure the green light will be given to do so.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Sonja Marchbank said: “I think the quicker they are jabbed the better, more chance of getting some normality back.”

Gabrielle Houston said: “No I wouldn’t allow mine right now, there’s no need to for one, and I’m still sceptical of vaccine.

"However I would take the risk myself and have it in hope we can get back to normal.

“In the future when I felt satisfied it was safe then I would vaccinate my children.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Clair Brennan said: "No it’s too soon to know if there are any long term effects.”

Ruth Whyler posted: “I am working with it every day, normality will not return, I can see that now until the entire population are protected.”

Elizabeth Anne Dough said: “I am an adult, I can do my research, make an informed decision based on information available, that’s my choice.

"My bairns will make their own decisions when old enough.

"I’m not anti vaccine, my kids have had MMR, flu vaccine in school, until [I] feel they’re in danger, this is it.”

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today.

Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day.

With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.