THL proposes amendment to Vaccination Decree to prepare for possibility of vaccinating children aged 5–11 against coronavirus
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) is proposing an amendment to the Government Decree on COVID-19 Vaccinations that would apply to vaccinations for children aged 5–11. The amendment would lay the groundwork for giving children the possibility to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
THL has issued a statement on the matter to the Ministry for Social Affairs and Health. A final decision on the matter is in the hands of the Government.
The clinical picture of coronavirus disease for those aged 5–11 is mostly mild, and the disease burden for those in the age group has been very low during the epidemic.
In spite of the low disease burden for children, parents could consider having their children vaccinated if they feel that it would be justified to protect someone close to the child with a serious disease or belonging to an at-risk group for coronavirus disease.
The possibility to vaccinate children should not delay vaccinations for those in groups that are more vulnerable to coronavirus disease – the elderly and other at-risk groups.
The THL statement is based on a statement issued by the National Advisory Committee on Vaccines (KRAR) at a meeting on 16 Dec. 2021, and on work by THL's own experts.
New information on vaccine safety for children became available in December
In December, additional information has come from around the world on the safety of vaccines for children aged 5–11.
In light of safety evidence from the United States, the most common adverse effects of the vaccination with young children are similar to the ones suffered by those over. Most of the adverse effects are mild and temporary, for example, redness and swelling at the point of injection.
As for severe side effects, the research showed that the incidence of rare inflammations of the pericardium (pericarditis) and the heart muscle (myocarditis) was about one for every million vaccine doses, which is less than in older age groups.
THL is closely following information that is coming in about the effectiveness and safety of vaccines.
On 2 Dec. 2021 THL recommended COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5–11 who are in an at-risk group.
Coronavirus vaccinations for children and young people
Further information
Hanna Nohynek
Head Physician
THL
[email protected]
Mia Kontio
Chief Specialist
THL
[email protected]
Emmi Sarvikivi
Head Physician
THL
[email protected]
