Aifa, the Italian drug agency, has given the green light to the anti-Covid vaccination for children aged between 5 and 11. The decision was taken on Wednesday evening after the favorable opinion of the EMA, the European Agency, and the approval of the AIFA Technical-Scientific Commission (CTS) which approved "the extension of the indication for use of the Comirnaty vaccine (Pfizer) for the age group 5-11 years, with a reduced dose (one third of the authorized dose for adults and adolescents) and with a specific formulation”.
The Hague announced it, specifying that the vaccination will take place in two doses three weeks apart. The available data - notes the CTS - demonstrate a high level of efficacy and there are no warning signs at the moment in terms of safety.
The press release from The Hague also specifies that in order to avoid possible administration errors, the CTS recommends, for the age group in question, the exclusive use of the pediatric formulation ad hoc suggesting when possible the adoption of age-appropriate vaccination courses.
In opinion, the CTS observes that "although SARS-CoV-2 infection is certainly more benign in children, in some cases it can be associated with serious consequences, such as the risk of developing multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-c), which may also require hospitalization in intensive care”.
Another aspect highlighted by the favorable opinion issued by the CTS is the positive impact of vaccination not only regarding health and protection from the risks associated with Covid but the favorable impact for sociality and the continuation of a complete relationship life, with particular regard to school and the possibility of attending lessons in person. Factors, observes the CTS, "connoted by recreational and educational elements that are particularly important for the psychic and personality development in this age group".
