Thread by @benrileysmith

EXC: Children to start getting Covid jabs as early as August under provisional Government plans. Months earlier than expected

Ministers waiting for key Astra trial before giving green light. First indication via safety data due shortly. (W/ @lauradonnlee)
telegraph.co.uk/politics/2021/…

Two sources familiar with the plans tell @Telegraph that August is the earliest point jabs will be rolled out to children.

There had been previous speculation it would be by the end of the year. These timings partly reflect success of the jab drive in the UK.

Important to be clear what we are and are not reporting tonight.

The final green light has NOT been given by ministers. That depends on a key vaccine trial.

But we are reporting what’s being planned assuming trial shows jab is safe for kids. Which is roll-out as early as Aug.

The key trial in question is one being run by Oxford Uni testing AstraZeneca vaccine on 300 children aged six to 17.

It is understood first indication of its impact (via safety data) due shortly. Findings on efficacy expected in June or July.

Israel - the country with highest % of vaccinations - is already giving children aged 16 and 17 the jab.

Given the UK trial is only for kids aged 6+ it is possible - if proved safe - initially it would be for over-5s. (Final decision very much tbc.)

The ‘as early as August’ timing is interesting. Current Gov target for offering first jab to all adults is end of July.

There are 11m UK kids of school age. We’re doing roughly 3m first doses a week right now. Meaning theoretically you could get most kids jabbed by autumn term.

What we don’t know (in part b/c final decisions not yet made).

Exemptions? TBC but expected

Parental consent? Israel does this, expected.

Rollout via GPs and pharmacies? (Likely). What about jabs in schools? Unclear.

Why vaccinate kids? Here’s some of what one member of the JCVI (which advises the Government on roll-out) told @lauradonnlee.

Here’s the full Government response tonight. (End)