Older teens can now register for vaccine

Youngsters aged 16 & 17 can register for a COVID-19 vaccine without parental consent.

The news comes from the Manx government following approval from the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

The JCVI said this age group should be offered a first dose of the Pfizer vaccine pending further considerations about giving a second dose to contribute towards longer-term protection.  

People in this group are now invited to register online and are advised they will be able to give their own consent to vaccination.

Contact from 111 will be made as soon as possible to confirm a vaccination appointment.

In addition, 17-year olds who are within three months of their 18^th birthday will be invited to register as part of the adult rollout, as once they reach the age of 18 they will be offered the full two dose course.   

A Health spokesman said planning is also underway for the vaccination of children aged 12-15 who are more susceptible to falling seriously ill from COVID-19 and further details will follow shortly.