Young people aged 12- to 17-years-old are being encouraged to register for their Covid-19 vaccine to help reduce transmission within the age group.

According to the government, recent data from the Public Health Surveillance Report has shown the greatest increase in weekly confirmed cases has been in the 10- to 14-year-old age group.

The second highest increase has been 15- to 19-year-olds.

Director of Public Health, Dr Henrietta Ewart, said: ’Whilst Covid-19 is typically mild in most young people, there is the risk of some getting seriously ill or needing hospitalisation and one dose of the vaccine will protect against this.

FLU JAB

’This year, secondary school children can also receive the flu vaccine which will provide that further protection from serious flu infections.

’Both vaccines should reduce infections in this age group and avoid the need to miss school.’

Nearly 2,000 children and young people aged 12- to 17-years-old have received the Covid-19 vaccine so far, according to government data.

Dr Ewart added: ’Vaccinating our young people will help reduce the risk of the virus spreading within schools, and allow them to continue their learning, which is good for their physical and mental health.’

Parents or guardians of children aged 12-15 are asked to register on behalf of their child online, while students aged 16 and over can register themselves.

More clinics will be held at locations across the island later this month.

Alongside vaccinations, young people are also encouraged to participate in regular testing using lateral flow devices to help detect cases early, reduce spread, and keep students in education.