Covid vaccines recommended by JCVI for 16 and 17-year-olds

Friday 06 August 2021

16 and 17-year-olds in Guernsey could soon be offered a first dose of the covid vaccine - and won't need parental consent to get it - after the UK’s vaccination panel gave the idea the green light.

The updated guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has been acknowledged by Guernsey’s Public Health who expect to release an update soon on the local position. Current guidelines only allow young people in this bracket to get vaccinated if they have certain medical issues.

Meanwhile, the UK expects to offer a first dose to all 16 and 17-year-olds within the next two weeks.

Pictured: The only vaccine approved for this age bracket is Pfizer.

“The States of Guernsey is aware of the statement made today by the JCVI and the UK Government,” said a Public Health spokesperson.

“We will now assess the requirements for children who meet the criteria as set out by the JCVI and will provide an update on how this will be deployed in the Bailiwick as soon as possible,” they said.

They asked people to hold fire on their questions while the States of Guernsey and Public Health decide their next course of action.

The spokesperson added: “Please do not email Public Health Services with specific requests to vaccinate children as we will be unable to provide you with a response."