Brazil’s Health cites risk of myocarditis in children to justify longer interval between vaccine doses

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Special Secretary for the Fight against Covid-19 Rosana Leite de Melo cited in a press conference on Wednesday, January 5, the alleged risk of myocarditis (proven rare) in the administration of the vaccine against Covid-19 in children aged 5 to 11.

The Secretary justified the Ministry’s adoption of a longer interval than recommended by ANVISA for the administration of the vaccine to children. ANVISA had suggested 21 days, but the Ministry of Health decided to adopt 56 (eight weeks).

“The benefit is greater, it is much better for anyone if the interval is extended. It works for children and adults,” she said.

“Children have a risk, a small risk, of myocarditis and we want that risk to be as low as possible. Studies show that by extending the interval, greater protection against this adverse effect is achieved,” she added.

Individuals in this age group may be administered Pfizer’s pediatric vaccine at one-third of the usual dose, according to the Brazilian regulator.

Vaccination of this age group will begin with children with comorbidities. Parental consent will be required. If the guardian is present during the immunization, no written consent will be required.

Nevertheless, the Ministry recommends prior consultation with a doctor before vaccination. The Ministry reversed its decision and dismissed the requirement for a doctor’s prescription to vaccinate children against Covid-19.

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