Cuba Vaccinates Toddlers Against COVID-19 in World’s First

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Source: AP

Cuba has become the first country to vaccinate toddlers against COVID-19 as it aims to vaccinate 90% of the population by December.

Earlier this year, multiple vaccine manufacturers reported the commencement of COVID-19 vaccine trials in children. Moreover, multiple countries including the US and Canada have approved the Pfizer vaccine for children aged 12 to 15 years. Although many have also started vaccinating younger age groups, vaccines for children under 12 are yet to receive approval. However, last week, the Cuban government announced it will begin vaccinating children aged two and up. Thus, making Cuba the first country to vaccinate toddlers against COVID-19.

With the rise in positive cases of Covid-19 in children, its necessary that the family protects itself more and so we are protecting our children and adolescents.

Dr. Francisco Duran Garcia, Cuba’s chief epidemiologist

Since March 2020, schools on the islands have largely remained shut due to the pandemic. The lack of home internet access on the island has further caused major disruptions for children. Instead of online classes or physical interactions with their teachers, the children spend hours watching educational television programs. Therefore, the Cuban government hopes that vaccinating toddlers and children will help accelerate the re-opening of schools.

Unlike other countries, Cuba has largely relied on locally produced COVID-19 vaccines.

Relying on Homegrown Vaccines

According to the island’s state media, children aged two to eleven will receive the Soberana O2 vaccine between 15th September to 15th November. Whereas the adult population is set to receive the Abdala vaccine. Both the locally developed Soberana and Abdala have shown great success in trials. Moreover, trials in children revealed them to be safe and effective.

Although the trial results are yet to undergo an international scientific review, the Finlay Vaccine Institute (IFV) has found the vaccines to be more than 90% effective. The Cuban government is expected to apply for WHO approval for its vaccines.

Cuban government’s vaccination plans are in an effort to stop the island’s recent surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths. The country aims to vaccinate more than 90% of its population by December. So far, 50% of the 11.2 million population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Moreover, 3.5 million have received both doses.

Both Pfizer and Moderna are currently testing their vaccine in children younger than 12 years.

Source: CNN

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