IMMUNISATION FOR CHILDREN & TEENS WITH DIABETES
Young people with diabetes aged 5 years and over are now eligible for COVID-19 immunisation.
Cabinet has confirmed the roll out of the child version of the Pfizer vaccine for 5 to 11 year olds, which will begin from 17 January 2022 prior to school returning, with a focus on more hesitant and remote communities.
The government is strongly encouraging parents to have their children vaccinated against COVID-19, but emphasise that this is a choice for parents. The Government has no intention of making COVID-19 vaccinations mandatory for anyone in this age group.
Parents are encouraged to make an informed choice and have their children vaccinated to protect them and those they love.
Parents should book in advance through Book My Vaccine to ensure both you and your child receive immunisation when you visit your local centre.
Why is immunisation against COVID-19 important?
Immunisation against COVID-19 is one of the most important tools we have available to:
help gain control of the current world-wide COVID-19 pandemic
prevent the emergence of new COVID-19 variants which may spread more easily
So far, worldwide adult COVID-19 immunisation drives are proving extremely effective at both:
preventing COVID-19 infection and
reducing severe COVID-19 symptoms and hospitalisation
What stage is COVID-19 immunisation at in New Zealand?
Minimum age for having the COVID-19 vaccine
In New Zealand, immunisation against COVID-19 is available for children and young people aged 5 years and over. Medsafe has confirmed the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine works well and is safe for children 12 years and older.
The vaccine used for tamariki is a children’s version of the Pfizer vaccine, with a lower dose and smaller volume. The lower dose was chosen based on a trial which showed the lower dose was safe and had few side effects in this age group.
Parents and caregivers have the opportunity to protect their tamariki aged 5 to 11 against COVID-19, by being vaccinated with a child (paediatric) formulation of the Pfizer vaccine.
Where to get up to date information on COVID-19 immunisation
Please see the 'Unite Against COVID-19' website for more details and up to date information on the COVID-19 vaccine rollout timing.
The 'Unite Against COVID-19' website also provides details of who can get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Check who can get the COVID-19 vaccine
Which children with diabetes can have the COVID-19 vaccine now?
Children and young people with diabetes aged 12 years and over are now eligible for COVID-19 immunisation.
Children aged 5 to 11 year olds will be eligible for the child vaccine from 17 January 2022.
Why immunise my child with diabetes against COVID-19?
Although fewer children have been infected with COVID-19 compared to adults, children can:
be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19
get sick from COVID-19
spread COVID-19 to others
People with diabetes may be more at risk of severe forms of the COVID-19 disease.
The Paediatric Society Clinical Network for Diabetes recommends all eligible children with diabetes should have the COVID-19 vaccine when available to help protect against COVID-19. Widespread immunisation is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic.
Is it safe for my child with diabetes to have the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes. Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Like adults, children and young people may have some side effects after COVID-19 immunisation. These side effects may affect their ability to do daily activities, but the side effects should go away in a few days. The risk of harm to children from COVID-19 infection remains much higher than the risk to them from vaccine side effects.
The Pfizer vaccine
is a messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine
does not contain any live virus, or dead or deactivated virus
can't give you COVID-19
can't affect your DNA
You can read more about vaccine development, safety, and side effects.
Read about vaccine development and safety at the 'Unite Against COVID-19' website
Side effects
Like all medicines, you might experience some mild side effects 1 to 2 days after your immunisation. This is common, and a sign that your body is learning to fight the virus. For those who do feel uncomfortable or unwell afterwards, the suggestions at the 'Unite Against COVID-19' website are to:
place a cold, wet cloth or ice pack on the injection site for a short time
rest and drink plenty of fluids
consider taking paracetamol or ibuprofen
If you're taking paracetamol or ibuprofen, follow the dosage instructions. It is dangerous to give more than the recommended dose.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The content on this page has been approved by the Clinical Network for Children and Young People with Diabetes, Paediatric Society of New Zealand and Diabetes New Zealand.