Kids with Comorbidities are First to Get COVID Vaccines, Says DOH

Children with comorbidities will be the first to get COVID-19 vaccines among minors, the Department of Health said Wednesday as it confirmed the expansion of inoculations.

Those aged 12 to 17 with underlying health conditions will be included in the third priority group along with adults with comorbidities, the DOH said. Vaccination of other children will continue once there is enough supply to cover them, it added.

“For the initial run, we recommend that children with co-morbidities will be vaccinated in selected sites with clearance from their pediatricians or trained doctors..." DOH spokesperson Usec. Maria Rosario Vergeire said.

The following are the main considerations of the DOH for the vaccination of minors:

1. Informed consent by the parent /guardian and child prior to vaccination will be obtained

2. Supply availability of Pfizer and Moderna, the only vaccines with emergency use authorization for 12 to 17 years old issued by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration

3. Equitable access to medical clearance by a physician for children with comorbidities

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The Philippines is set to expand COVID-19 vaccinations to the general public and children in October as more supplies of jabs are expected to arrive.

So far, COVID-19 vaccination is limited to health workers, senior citizens, persons with comorbidities, the working population, and the poor.

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