The Centre Think Tank logo in pink consists of the word “Centre” with a dot in the middle of the letter “C”, all in pink.
The Centre Think Tank logo in pink consists of the word “Centre” with a dot in the middle of the letter “C”, all in pink.
The Centre Think Tank logo in pink consists of the word “Centre” with a dot in the middle of the letter “C”, all in pink.

Our vision

Our best shot

This paper makes the case of under 18s being given the COVID-19 vaccine.

At the top of the paper is a pink strip with the words "Centre Think Tank ISSN 2634-4696". Below this is a paper cover in light blue on a blue background. The title is the words "Our best shot. Why we need to vaccinate under 18’s for COVID-19." Under this is an image of two hands, one with a syringe and the other holding a COVID-19 test. Under this are the words "Briefing paper. By Pushkin Defyer, July 13th, 2021."

Our best shot: Why we need to vaccinate under 18’s

This paper looks at why those under 18 should be given vaccines to protect against COVID-19. The paper concludes that we should vaccinate those between 12-17. This would be to cut case rates, reach herd immunity, safeguard our children’s education, and prevent further serious mutations. 12–17-year-olds should receive vaccinations.
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Quick summary

  • COVID-19 cases are rising again. In order to cut case rates, reach herd immunity, safeguard our children’s education, and prevent further serious mutations, 12–17-year-olds should receive vaccinations.
  • The UK should follow other countries that are vaccinating these age groups. Pfizer has been approved and rolled out in these age groups in several other countries, including the United States, Israel, and many EU countries. It has also been approved by the UK health regulator.
  • Masks in class, increasing accessibility to online learning, COVID-safe global travel, and keeping lockdown and school closures should all be kept under review.

Authors

A portrait photo against a plain background of Pushkin Defyer

Pushkin Defyer

Head of Continuous Improvement

Pushkin is a History and Politics graduate from SOAS with a background spanning nearly a decade in British politics. He also led social media for a Labour prospective parliamentary candidate in Poplar and Limehouse and researched Brexit-related voting patterns for Liberal Democrat chief whip Lord Stoneham.