The European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved the use of Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid-19 vaccine for children aged five to 11.
The move paves the way for countries to expand access to shot as the bloc struggles to contain the wave.
The agency, which has already cleared the shot for use in older children, said the benefits of vaccination in young children outweigh the risks. “Particularly in those with conditions that increase the risk of severe Covid-19.”
Cyprus has earlier started voluntary Coronavirus vaccination of children over 12 years old next week, authorities said on Friday.
Cyprus is following the steps of other EU countries like France, Germany and Italy which have begun vaccinating children aged 12 to 15 years, said Health Minister Michalis Hadjipantela.
“The world’s scientific community said that people who didn’t receive vaccination are at risk,” said Hadjipantela.
However, critics say that vaccinating children and younger populations in wealthier countries will lead to a further lack of doses.
“Safe Pass” is a paper document certifying whether a person got his vaccination or infected in the last six months. It also shows the PCR test results in the last 72 hours.
Governments will apply “SafePass” in hospitals and residential care facilities as well as all other places like restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping malls and supermarkets.
This measure caused a wave of disapproval among people. Many have considered this an attack on their rights to assembly and free movement.
