Maldives is to begin administering Pfizer vaccination doses to children between the ages 12 – 17.

During a press conference on Thursday evening, Spokesperson at the Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC), Dr. Nazla Rafeeq revealed that they have received confirmation of receiving a stock of Pfizer vaccine dosages soon.

She noted that once received, they will be administered to separate categories.

These include children between 12 – 17 years of age, immune system compromised individuals, those who are taking long-term medications and those who are pregnant. As for expecting mothers, Dr. Nazla revealed that those who yet to receive a single vaccine shot will be eligible, as well as those who got pregnant after receiving Covishield as the first dose.

Further, those who received a first jab of Pfizer abroad and has since returned to the Maldives will also be eligible for the vaccine, alongside students who are traveling to countries where only Pfizer vaccines are approved.

The campaign to vaccinate children above 12 years of age will proceed with the assistance of the Ministry of Education.

Dr. Nazla reported that some of the preparations have already concluded.

As per the eases announced on Thursday, schools, universities and colleges have been allowed to resume physical classes as well.