Professor Karina Butler:

From the point of view of NIAC and of vaccination, at the moment there is no authorised vaccine for children in that age group. Studies are ongoing which are looking at what dose might be necessary and, indeed, whether it is needed for children. From NIAC's perspective, we have no recommendations in terms of vaccination for children. From the general public health perspective, I am sure Dr. Glynn or Dr. Holohan might want to speak to that. On what has been done in our schools, the school systems have really taken on board the need to keep that environment a safe one for children. To a certain extent, we are very fortunate. This infection has been different from many other infections in that when children acquire infection - it still remains the case, even with the Delta variant - it is for the majority of them a mild infection and, in fact, that may contribute to their overall immunity ongoing. From NIAC's perspective, there is no recommendation regarding vaccination for children at this time.