The Dominican Pediatrics Society had favored the Dominican government purchase the newly approved Pfizer pediatrics vaccines. But on Monday, 8 November 2021, the Health Cabinet authorized the use of the Chinese-made Sinovac vaccines to inoculate children 5 to 11 years. The vaccines are recommended now that young children are back in in-person learning.
The Ministry of Public Health has abundant stocks of Sinovac vaccine. Colombia, Chile and China have been using the vaccine for the younger age group without reported side effects.
“We agree to vaccinate children. We call on the population to take advantage of the month of the family [November], so that in the coming days, in addition to helping us reach the goal of 70% percent of vaccinated with second dose, do it with responsibility, confidence and security to children,” said Public Health Minister Daniel Rivera in making the announcement.
Dr. Eddy Pérez Then, advisor to the Ministry of Public Health on Covid-19, mentioned the positive experiences in China and Chile. He said the vaccine will resolve the situation of the young unvaccinated children who have become vectors of the Covid-19 disease.
Dr. Perez Then said that the country would begin vaccinating the young children with Sinovac, but that as of the first quarter of 2022, Pfizer’s pediatric dose would be available.
The Ministry of Public Health says there are 700,000 people in the country who still need to get vaccinated for the country to reach 70% of the population with the two vaccines.
The Ministry of Public Health is now working on the logistics for the start of the vaccinating of the young children.
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Presidency
9 November 2021