What you need to know about the 5 to 11-years old inoculation program

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization of Pfizer vaccines for ages 5-11 years old. This is in response to growing concerns about the health risks that COVID-19 is presenting to children.

The Philippine government started administering COVID-19 vaccines to kids last February 4, 2022. 

Education Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan said that 14 million basic education students aged 5 to 11 are now eligible for the vaccination. This seems to be good news for the Department of Education (DepEd) too since they're gearing to start face-to-face classes by the school year 2022 to 2023.

This vaccination rollout for students would help build confidence among parents who will allow their children to attend face-to-face classes, prevent the transmission of COVID-19 in schools, and reduce the symptoms of COVID-19 if kids get infected.

"Vaccination will protect them from severe forms of COVID-19 disease and provide an additional layer of protection as they begin face-to-face schooling soon," the Department of Health (DOH) said. 

Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje also reiterated that vaccination is not mandatory.

"Parents will give consent. We will also explain to the child what would happen during vaccination, what we will give them, the benefits of the vaccine and its side effects," Cabotaje said in an interview with a radio station on Sunday.

Here's a rundown on the things you need to know about the latest inoculation program for kids aged 5 to 11 years old.

Who's eligible for the vaccination?

Kids from the age of 5 to 11 years old are eligible to receive the vaccine. However, parents of kids with comorbidities are required to present a medical certificate.

What's the vaccination process?

The process for kids is similar to the process for the adult group, but the children need to present a signed consent form from their parent or guardian. They must also be accompanied by said parent or guardian on their vaccination day.

Several local government units (LGUs) started their pre-registration for the vaccine rollout. You may coordinate with your LGU to enlist your children.

The DOH also said that there are at least 32 sites for the vaccination campaign in Manila, including the Philippine Children's Medical Center and the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City.

Are there any requirements?

Here are the requirements, as per DOH mandate:

  • Child is accompanied by parent or guardian
  • Proofs of relationship (e.g. birth certificate)
  • Valid ID of child, with picture
  • Valid ID of parent or guardian, with picture
  • Medical certificate, if with comorbidities
  • Well-fitted face mask and face shield
  • Pen and paper
  • Alcohol, fan, water, as necessary

What vaccine brand will be administered?

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine will be used for pediatric vaccination as this was the only vaccine that was granted emergency authorization use by the FDA.

Are there any expected side effects?

Just like adults, the kids are also expected to experience side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine. Although DOH officials noted that these would be mild reactions and should not last longer than 48 hours.

Some common side effects include:

  • Muscle aches
  • Low-grade fever
  • Fatigue
  • Pain and selling at the injection site
  • Headache

There you have it, the 411 on getting kids or students aged 5-11 years old vaccinated against COVID-19. For more information, visit the DOH website for updates on the latest policies and mandates and check with your nearest Barangay Health Center or LGU to get enlisted for the rollout.

Art Header by Shai Libunao