Coronavirus vaccinations for children aged 5-11 years have been recommended by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC).
It’s expected the roll out will begin in January and the first batch of vaccines are due to arrive into the country on December 15.
Around 480,000 primary school children will be offered the jab and a lower dose of the Pfizer vaccine will be administered to children.
Some children may receive their vaccine in December.
NIAC has also recommended that three categories within those aged 5-11 years be prioritised for vaccination, at the same time as others with an underlying condition.
The categories are those with an underlying condition; living with a younger child with complex medical needs and living with an immunocompromised adult.
Children in this age group will receive the Pfizer vaccine and the recommendations have been endorsed by Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan.
The HSE will now put in place plans to deliver the programme.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said: “Today’s news is another positive step forward in our country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As the country continues to experience a high incidence of disease, we have seen a significant increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in this age group.
"While we know that most children will experience a very mild form of this disease if they pick it up, for a small few, they may become severely ill.
"Extending the possibility of vaccination to this age group offers another layer of protection to our children, and to those around them.
“We are already beginning to see a significant reduction in incidence of COVID-19 infection in the over 75 age group, where people have been taking up the offer of a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in high numbers.
"This is really good news and shows the benefits of receiving a third/booster dose.
“Do not wait until after Christmas to receive your booster vaccine or come forward for your first dose, the benefits of receiving your booster dose far outweigh any potential risks that may arise in the meantime.
“It is vital that all of us prioritise our booster appointments as soon as we receive them or make the time to attend a walk-in vaccination clinic if that option is available.”
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