Need for immunization drive for pediatric age group

With the ease of Covid-19 norms across India, health experts and parents of younger population are expecting to hear an announcement on immunization drive for pediatric age groups in the country.

After 18 months of being unable to attend educational institutions, states like Punjab and Chhattisgarh welcomed back school students earlier this month, whereas Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh are gearing up to reopen schools from Monday.

Dr Dhiren Gupta, Pediatrician, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, said: "Thepediatric age groups might not get affected seriously, but they can be great spreaders, especially thosebeyond 12 years, they are almost like adults. They should be vaccinated, and if available for age group below 4 years should also be vaccinated." Dr Gupta also reiterated to the fact that major complications, due to vaccine, amongst younger age group are unlikely because they tolerate vaccine better than adult age groups.

With lack of study-based evidence on effects of Covid vaccines on young children, experts say that the immunization drive must be carried out as early as possible. Paediatric experts mentioned that booster shots will be a safer bet for complete immunization thansingle dose.

Amid speculations on the next phase of the immunization drive, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had said that vaccination of children against Covid-19 may start as early as August. A formal announcement is yet to be made. Dr Preeti Chadda, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician, Moolchand Hospital, said: "Same strategy such as social distancing, avoiding unnecessary outing, wearing masks should be adapted. The adults, who have recovered from Covid or completed their vaccination, should bear in mind that children are not protected. The minimum age to vaccinate children can be as low as 5 years of age."