Why can’t the under 16s get the COVID vaccine?
It has been stated that the coronavirus vaccine will only be given to those over 16 in Australia. This has raised concerns by some people about why they will be excluded.
The reason is actually quite simple.
Most of the COVID-19 vaccines under development have not yet been tested on younger children.
Safety comes first.
Once tested on this age group, and found safe, it is presumed that authorisation for use will subsequently be given.
In the United States, the Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine has only been authorised for use in people aged 16 and older. The Moderna vaccine has been authorised for use in people aged 18 and older.