HPA preparing for Covid-19 vaccination of children

Health Protection Agency (HPA) disclosed that they are preparing for pediatric Covid-19 vaccination.

HPA stated that they are making preparation for pediatric Covid-19 vaccination, as part of strengthening the national vaccine program.

The Health Protection Agency on Wednesday, started a Vaccine and Cold-Chain Management Workshop for immunization focal persons from Atolls and Greater Male' Area. HPA is conducting this workshop in collaboration with UNICEF in Maldives and the World Health Organization Country Office Maldives.

While HPA had started the preparation for pediatric Covid-19 vaccination, more than 371,000 people have completed both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, under the government's "Covid-19 Dhifaau" inoculation drive.

According to the latest figures publicized by HPA, a total of 371,439 persons have completed both doses of the vaccine whereas 398,348 persons have received the first dose nationwide so far.

The total number of booster doses administered nationwide so far is at 143,477.

The incumbent administration launched the “Covid-19 Dhifaau” inoculation drive on 1 February 2021. Currently, there are nine vaccination centers in the capital region and 185 vaccination centers spanning outlying atolls.

The government announced the decision to administer booster shots of the Covid-19 vaccination, to immune-compromised persons, seniors and frontline workers, last year. This came following recommendations from the Maldives Technical Advisory Group on Immunization.

HPA recently opened administration of booster doses for all individuals, without the need for a prior appointment .

For now, HPA is only administering Pfizer booster doses.

HPA revealed that the immunity provided by vaccination decreases over time ,and that a booster dose is required to boost immunity after six months of double vaccination , as it increases protection against infection and severe disease.