Young People Urged To Get Vaccinated This Weekend

Young people are being encouraged to take full advantage of the opportunity to get vaccinated this weekend when Trusts will be running clinics for the 12 to 17 age groups.

Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Michael McBride was speaking in advance of the roll out of a series of clinics across Northern Ireland on 27 and 28 November. He said: "I can fully understand that among some young people there is a feeling that the threat of Covid-19 is not something which applies to them.

"However, recent events where large numbers of young people were gathered together have shown us that age alone is no protection against catching this virus or passing it on to others who may be even more vulnerable.

"Many young people have already had their careers, their education and their sporting activity significantly curtailed as a consequence of contracting Covid-19."

Professor Sir Michael McBride went on to say: "I would ask parents, carers and guardians to have a conversation with their children and encourage them to take up this opportunity to receive the vaccine. The weight of the last two years has fallen particularly heavily on young people and they have missed out on so much.

"Getting the vaccine provides them with the best chance to take back control and protect themselves and also protect those closest to them including their parents, grandparents and other relatives. The more people that are vaccinated will help to lessen the impact of COVID-19 across society and on the health service.

"Vaccination is also really important when it comes to reducing disruption to young people’s education."