In an effort to further shield Public Health against COVID-19, the Ministry of Health, after taking into account the recommendations of the Cyprus Pediatric Society, announces the initiation of vaccination in 16 and 17 year olds.
Vaccinations for people aged 16-17 will be given with technology vaccines mby arranging an appointment through the Vaccination Portal. The Vaccination Portal for arranging appointments for people over 16 years old will open from Wednesday, June 30, at 7:30 am and will remain open without time limit. The appointment through the Vaccination Portal can be arranged either by the parents / legal guardians or by the Personal Doctor / Pediatrician in consultation with the parents / legal guardians of the children.
When coming to the Vaccination Centers, minors must provide the following evidence:
- Written Consent Form for Parents / Guardians for Vaccination of a Minor with Vaccine for COVID-19 signed by both parents / guardians, unless legally (upon presentation of a relevant Court decision) this is not necessary. The Form should be delivered to the Vaccination Centers during the vaccination.
- Identification document (identity card, passport, Foreigner Registration Card, etc.) of the minor.
- Copy of identification document of one of the parents / guardians. In case the minor will be accompanied by the parents / guardians (or one of the two), they will have to present an identification document.
The decision for vaccination shielding for 16 and 17 year olds was made after examining the recent data of the Tracing Team, based on which almost 30% of cases are aged 18 and under, especially adolescents aged 15-18 years, who have intense social activity and increased number of contacts. According to scientific data, the characteristics of the virus in adolescents (contagion, spread, symptoms, etc.) are identical to those present in adults.
For the above reasons and to ensure that a new outbreak of the virus in the community is prevented and that younger ages and, consequently, their family and friends are protected, parents / guardians are encouraged to consent to their vaccination after discussion with their children. In view of the resumption of the school year in September, Early vaccination of children will contribute to the smooth operation of schools, with the physical presence of students.