The United Arab Emirates has approved emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for kids aged 5 to 11, boosting the country with its widespread vaccine roll-out and prevention of the novel coronavirus.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) authorised emergency use of the Pfizer-BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine, based on local assessment in compliance with approved regulations, and following approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The studies deemed the jab to be “safe” and “effective” for those 5 to 11 years old.
“The results of clinical studies indicated that the vaccine is safe and has given a strong immune response to children between the age of 5 and 11 years old,” the statement from the Ministry said of the Pfizer shots.
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Previously, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was only available to those 12 years old and up. The vaccine was administered in two doses, taken 21 days part.
Zabeel Primary Healthcare Centres, Hatta Hospital, Al Barsha, Al Mizhar and Latifa Women and Children Hospital helped administer Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to patients aged 12 to 15.
Prior to this latest emergency use, the Sinopharm jab was the only approved COVID-19 vaccine for very young patients, aged three and up. The China-developed vaccine was deemed “safe” and administered via two injections, 21 days apart.
The Ministry’s emergency approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine helps strengthen the United Arab Emirates’ vaccination plan, accelerating the recovery process. It is also an essential part in preventing COVID-19, especially in younger age groups.
Wondering about booster shots? The report stated people with chronic diseases who previously received Pfizer-BioNTech or the Russia-developed Sputnik vaccinations are now eligible to get a third booster shot. Additionally, those aged 18 to 59 working on the front lines will be eligible for COVID-19 booster shots.
The UAE vaccine roll-out update comes just after the United Arab Emirates ranked third in the world for its resiliency and response to COVID-19.
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