Council chiefs have confirmed concerns about outbreaks of Covid-19 among children who are – currently – below the age for a vaccination.

Official figures show that the highest number of new cases in the Borough involve infections children in the first year of secondary school – Year 7 - or at primary.

The current vaccination rules are that only children aged 12 and over are entitled to a vaccination.

Yesterday, the Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, announced that youngsters aged 12-15 should now come forward for a second jab, provided their first one was at least three months ago.

It emerged yesterday that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is currently considering whether to approve vaccination of younger children. A decision is expected before Christmas.

Nub News reported yesterday that one leading Secondary School has seen more than one in 10 pupils in Year 7 – aged 11-12 – off due to Covid-19.

The symptoms are – generally – mild, however the fact students are out of school is causing huge disruption in terms of managing their education and for the families involved.

At the same time, any community spread linked to younger children creates risks for older and vulnerable people.

A Richmond Council spokesperson said: "Our schools are working really hard to combat COVID-19, and where there are outbreaks, we work with the schools to support them. However, this is not just about what the schools can do, but also about the young people and their families.

"In recent weeks we have seen a rise in the number of young people testing positive for COVID-19, many of these are not currently eligible for the vaccine i.e. below 12 years of age."

According to official data there are currently more cases of Covd-19 in the under 15s than in any other age group. There were some 221 cases recorded in children aged 10-14 in the borough in the most recent seven day period and the figure was a higher 259 in those aged 5-9.

By comparison the figure was just 27 in those aged 15-19 and 22 in those aged 20-24.

The spokesperson said: "Outbreaks can cause disruption to education and it's important to contain them as quickly as possible.

"It is essential that all young people in secondary schools take routine lateral flow tests twice a week. If they test positive they need to self-isolate immediately, requesting a PCR test.

"PCR tests can be booked online and lateral flow tests can be picked up from local libraries or pharmacies.

"All parents and children aged 12 years and above are strongly advised to take covid-19 vaccine as soon as they become eligible."

"Face coverings should be worn in communal areas in all settings by staff, visitors and pupils or students in year 7 and above, unless they are exempt. Pupils or students (in year 7 or above) should continue to wear face coverings on public and dedicated school transport, unless they are exempt."

There are opportunities to get vaccinated at the Stoop this week.

• Pfizer walk-ins for 12-15 year olds: Tuesday, Nov 30 and Thursday, Dec 2, 3.30-6.30pm.

• Pfizer walk-ins for 16+ year olds: Wednesday, Dec 1, 10am-6.30pm; Tuesday, Nov 30, and Thursday December 2, 10am–3pm.