First 12-year-old to get the jab!

The Department of Health has announced that children between the ages of 12 and 17 can receive Covid-19 vaccinations from Wednesday, 20 October.

The South African Health Product Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) approved a single dose of the Pfizer vaccine for eligible children in September. This is currently the only Covid jab that has been approved for use in this age group. The vaccine requires two doses, at least 21 days apart, to achieve full protection.

Reuben Steinbach from a farm next to the Vaal River in Scandinavia Drift, about 25 km from Potchefstroom, was the first 12-year-old to receive the jab at Witrand Hospital on opening day.
“We are a household of eight, so it was important to all get the jab. Luckily, Reuben didn’t hesitate when I asked if he would like to go,” said his mother, Almie.

“When it was time to go, he started getting anxious about how painful it would be. But I used his experience from the day before to his advantage,” she added.
Reuben stepped on a bee while walking barefoot over the grass. His mother said the needle would be far less painful in comparison.

“He took the moment as a pro and was pleasantly surprised at how fast and painless it was,” Almie laughed. She said he had experienced nothing more than a sore arm afterwards. “Other than that, he has been doing great,” she said.

The Minister of Health, Joe Phaahla, said the decision to open up vaccinations to children follows a recommendation by the Vaccine Ministerial Advisory Committee, supported by health MECs and the cabinet.

“We believe this will come in handy as schools start exams or are advancing towards concluding the academic year and preparing for the next year,” he said during the department’s weekly digital press briefing on Friday.