COVID-19: UAE approves Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children over five

The UAE has authorised the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children between five and 11 years of age.

The announcement was made by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), which added that the decision was based on results of clinical studies and rigorous assessment in addition to the US Food and Drug Administration's approval.

It said the clinical study results indicated that the vaccine is "safe" and gives a "strong immune response" to children in the 5-11 age group. 

The move, the ministry added, is being taken to accelerate the recovery process and strengthen prevention among this age group.

Meanwhile, UAE residents who have chronic diseases, aged between 18 and 49, have been advised to get their booster jabs. For frontline workers, the age eligibility has been set between 18 and 59.