Pfizer vaccine

The programme started Tuesday, with children lining up to receive their first doses at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall in Nuku'alofa.

According to the latest update from Tonga's Ministry of Health, 90 percent of the Kingdom's eligible population (aged 12 and over) are double vaccinated, and only 2 percent remain unvaccinated.

There are 1,522 active cases with 11 officially recognised Covid deaths.

Photo Ministry of Health  Caption: Pfizer vaccine rollout for children at Queen Salote Hall 

The Ministry hopes to start the vaccination campaign from 15th November to support the safe reopening of schools.

MOH’s Permanent Secretary, Doctor James Fong said  Covid-19 poses a lower risk to children however secondary transmission from young school-aged children can and does occur.

Dr Fong added with the successful rollout of the Moderna vaccine for 15 to 17 years old, the Ministry is now focusing on the lower age group.

New Zealand’s donation will support the timely vaccination of Tonga’s eligible population, in particular its 12-17 age group and pregnant women.

The first Pfizer consignment arrived on 20 October 2021 at Fua’amotu International Airport and was received by Prime Minister Hon Dr Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa, Minister for Health Dr ‘Amelia Tu’ipulotu, New Zealand High Commissioner to Tonga, HE Tiffany Babington, MOH CEO Dr Siale ‘Akau’ola and other MOH officials.

Fiji is expected to administer Pfizer vaccine to children aged between 12 and 14 years from next month.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said although vaccination is not compulsory, students are encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves.

The vaccine is being brought in from New Zealand and will be available from this month.

The Ministry of Health Ministry said all logistical procedures will be looked at before it is administered.

The Ministry of Health CEO Dr Siale 'Akau'ola told local media that if there are pregnant mothers who wished to be vaccinated with AstraZeneca vaccines now, they won't be turned away.

Tonga's vulnerability to impacts of COVID-19 infection in terms of non-communicable disease risk factors remains high.

Dr 'Akau'ola said that combining these two risks, make the risk for an unvaccinated pregnant woman extremely high.