Please give Covid vaccine to my vulnerable little boy, pleads Doncaster mum

Sarah Walters’s four-year-old son, Jayden, has a life limiting illness which she fears puts him at more danger from the virus.

Jayden suffers Loeys-Dietz syndrome. He has to shield to make sure he does not come into contact with Covid-19.

He briefly started school, but when infection rates in the borough rose, he stopped.

Sarah believes youngsters like Jayden should be considered for a vaccine because their medical conditions make them more vulnerable than other children.

“We are concerned Jayden may not be able to have a vaccine,” she said. “It is still giving him a risk if he is not allowed a jab.

"I don’t know how it leaves things going forward – I don’t think they’re talking about giving the vaccine to children. I think Jayden should be allowed it as soon as possible.

“It feels to me extremely vulnerable children like Jayden are being forgotten about. He’s not the only one. I can’t risk Jayden going out until it’s 100 per cent safe.”

A spokesman for Public Health England could not comment on specific cases.

But they said the Covid-19 immunisation programme was to protect those at highest risk from serious illness or death.

Experts advised the vaccine first be given to care home residents and staff, followed by people over 80 and health and social workers, then in order of age and risk.

Vaccine trials have only just begun in children. Officials say children have a very low risk compared to adults and so vaccines are not routinely recommended for them.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.