Hawke's Bay children aged between five and 11 can now be protected against Covid by being vaccinated with a child (paediatric) dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
Hawke's Bay DHB Covid Vaccination Senior Responsible Officer Chris Mckenna said the Pfizer vaccine for 5 to 11-year-olds is a lower dose.
"And (a) smaller volume than the adult dose, with tamariki needing two doses of the vaccine at least eight weeks apart to be fully protected from Covid-19.
"The interval between doses can be shortened to a minimum of 21 days if needed, for example if a child is starting treatment with immunosuppressants."
Mrs McKenna said vaccinators had been undertaking additional training, which included education with parents/caregivers as well as the consent process.
"When attending a child vaccine clinic, both adults and children can ask as many questions as they like. We know most questions will be about the side effects.
"The lower dose of the vaccine chosen for tamariki in New Zealand was based on a trial which showed it was safe and had few side effects in this age group, with the most common side effects mild and lasting for one or two days.
"I encourage parents and caregivers to learn more about the child vaccine on the www.covid-19.govt.nz website.
''They can also speak with their General Practitioner or a Covid vaccine provider about the vaccine, or call the Covid Vaccination Healthline on 0800-28-29-26, available seven days between 8am and 8pm."
Child (5 to 11-year-old) vaccine clinics beginning week of January 17.
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