Vaccines for young children: Is it safe?

The number of COVID-19 cases is increasing in India, with an average of 12,461 new infections each day. As offices, schools, and malls have opened again, vaccination is a vital step to ensure that our children are protected along with us. These vaccines protect us against severe diseases, hospitalization, and even death in certain cases. 

The National COVID Vaccination Program in India is based on epidemiological and scientific research, WHO guidelines, and international best practices. It is implemented with the help of effective and efficient engagement from States/UTs and the general public and is based on methodical end-to-end planning.

The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved the emergency use of 2 vaccines for young children. 

• Biological E's Corbevax (5-12 years)
• Bharat Biotech's Covaxin (6-12 years) 

While the 5-12 year age group can only receive the vaccination on an emergency basis, the government has already set up ways to roll out the program for children aged 12 years and older.

Available vaccines for children based on age groups:

• Children between the ages of 12 and 17 can now get the Covovax vaccine. There are 21 days between the first and second Covovax doses. Within a month, children can receive their second dosage of Covovax.

• The Corbevax vaccination is now available for children between the ages of 12 and 17 years. There are 28 days between the first and second Corbevax doses.

• Children between the ages of 15 and 18 can have Covaxin. The second dosage of Covaxin must be administered to children 4 to 6 weeks after the first dose was given. There are two options: online and in person.