Children between 12-15 years will be offered a vaccine against covid-19.
That message was given by Prime Minister Stefan Löfven, Minister of Social Affairs Lena Hallengren (S), Minister of Education Anna Ekström (S) and the Director General of the Public Health Agency Johan Carlson at a press conference.
- The vaccine will protect children at these ages, but it will also help us keep schools open, says Minister of Education Anna Ekström (S).
Starts after the autumn holidays
The vaccination of the younger age group will start after the autumn holidays in early November.
For now, two vaccine doses are also recommended here.
The Minister of Education calls on the regions to coordinate vaccination with school principals in order to reach as many children as possible.
According to her, vaccination can definitely be relevant in the schools themselves.
- Even younger people are at risk of suffering from a serious illness and long-term symptoms.
Due to this, the Swedish Public Health Agency has today decided to further lower the age for vaccination, says the Swedish Public Health Agency's Director General Johan Carlson.
Several countries already vaccinate children from the age of 12.
The Swedish Public Health Agency has followed the development and made an overall assessment where it is considered that the advantages of vaccinating the younger age group outweigh the disadvantages.
Unvaccinated people are advised to keep their distance
Prime Minister Stefan Löfven emphasized the importance of everyone who is offered a vaccine going and getting vaccinated.
- It is only through vaccines that we return to a more normal life.
For those of you who are hesitant or have not yet taken the plunge: book an appointment for vaccination today.
Minister of Social Affairs Lena Hallengren says at the press conference that the sharp recommendations on keeping a distance will be removed for those who are fully vaccinated but remain for those who have not taken the vaccine.
Therefore, she also urges everyone to go and get vaccinated.