COVID-19 Vaccination Expanded to Children in Europe

A rise in coronavirus infections across Europe has prompted countries to broaden their vaccination efforts, with Spain, Italy, and Austria approving the use of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11. This expansion comes after the European Medicines Agency authorized the vaccine for use on November 25. The rollout is set to begin on December 15 in Spain, with Portugal expected to follow suit.

Key Takeaways:

Spain has given the green light for children between 5 and 11 to receive the COVID-19 vaccine amid a surge in infections.
Italy and Austria have also begun inoculating children in the same age group, following the European Union's drug regulator's approval on November 25.
The European Medicines Agency's decision allows for the administration of jabs to millions of elementary school pupils across the continent.
Portugal, Spain's neighbor, is expected to commence pediatric vaccinations in two weeks' time, with over 90% of 12-17-year-olds already vaccinated.
Both Portugal and Spain have high vaccine uptakes, with around 90% of eligible individuals having received jabs.
According to Hans Kluge, the WHO's Europe director, vaccinating children not only prevents infections among their families but also helps avoid further school closures and home learning.
Apart from the health benefits, vaccinating children also supports the economic and social stability of communities.

Statistics:

3.2 million child vaccines are expected to arrive in Spain on December 13.
90% of 12-17-year-olds in Portugal have received COVID-19 jabs.
Spain and Portugal have high vaccine uptakes, with close to 90% of eligible individuals having received jabs.
New daily infections have risen in both countries in recent weeks.
The European Medicines Agency's decision has opened the way for jabs to be administered to millions of elementary school pupils across the continent.

Sources:

AP news wire
European Medicines Agency
World Health Organization (WHO)