The inoculation of minors aged 12 to 17 years is on track with nearly seven million already with complete doses against Covid-19.

National Task Force Against Covid-19 chief implementer, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., reported on Monday that 54 percent of the target younger population, or a total of 6,789,182, have acquired protection against severe symptoms through Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

“Sa assessment po namin na kung magtuloy-tuloy po ang output natin, kaya po nating matapos ang pagbabakuna ng kabataang edad 12 hanggang 17 anyos by end of March at makapagsimula po ng boosters by April kapag pinayagan na po tayo ng mga expert (Our assessment showed that if we could continue our output, we can finish the vaccination of children 12 to 17 years old by the end of March and we can start giving booster shots by April, if the experts allow us),” Galvez said during the pre-recorded Talk to the People of President Rodrigo Duterte aired late Monday night.

The government also eyes to inoculate about 15.5 million in the 5 to 11 age bracket.

Galvez said some 780,000 lower-dosed Pfizer vaccines for the youngest age group so far are expected to arrive by end of January, followed by 1,632,000 doses in February.

The government has also ordered 10 to 15 million doses for the second doses of the 5-11 age group.

“Other orders will be in tranches considering this is a different formulation intended for the age group 11 years and below. Puwede po natin pong gamitin ‘to sa (We can also use this for) zero to four years old,” Galvez added.

He said Sinovac Biotech Ltd. has applied for an emergency use authorization for 3 to 17-year-olds. (PNA)