CAPE TOWN - Free the children - Save the Nation, a non-profit organistion that upholds the rights and interests of children, is opposing the government's plan to vaccinate children aged 12 to 17, saying the risks outweigh the benefits.
The organisation’s John Taylor said: “On 8th October, we launched an appeal to the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) in terms of section 24A(1) of the Medicines and related substances Act, No 101 of 1965 against the “vaccination” of children.
“Apart from relying, inter alia, upon Sections 12 and 28 of the Constitution of South Africa to protect and ensure the best interests and rights of children, we contend that medical science does not support the blanket ‘vaccination’ of children and that such a strategy is not in the best interests of society as the risks of ’vaccinating’ children far outweigh any possible benefits.
“In addition, there is no legal recourse against the producers of the ‘vaccines’ for any harm the children might suffer arising out of the administration of the vaccinations, and there is no proper provision for proper and /or adequate informed consent on the part of children and parents. We request that Sahpra fulfil their obligations in terms of such appeal and look forward to their direct engagement with ourselves as provided for in the Act,” said Taylor.
Health Minister Joe Phaahla gave the green light to vaccinate children over the age of 12 following a recommendation by the Vaccine Ministerial Advisory Committee (VMAC), supported by Health MECs and Cabinet.
Phaahla said schools were set to benefit significantly from the announcement as learners prepare to write their end-of-year examinations.
The children will receive only one dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
“The VMAC advised that for now, we only give one dose while assessing information which suggests that in a few cases there have been short- lived cases of transient myocarditis ((inflammation of the heart muscle)) after two doses. The timing of the second dose will be informed by further information on this rarely observed side effect which has no permanent risk.
“The VMAC has also advised that additional doses be given to individuals with compromised immunity such as those on long term oral steroids therapy for autoimmune conditions, those with haematological or immune malignancies, those with solid organ or bone marrow transplant, renal dialysis and primary immunological disorders,” he said.
Sahpra referred questions to the department of health.
Cape Times