——teens. for the healthy children, the risk—benefit balance is really very uncertain and very tight. normally what we do when we recommend vaccination for children is we see a very clear benefit that clearly outweighs any possible risk. in the absence of that clear blue water, if you like, between those two, we prefer to advise that healthy children should not for the moment be immunised. there are 3 million 12—15 —year—olds in the uk. of these, around 464,000 are currently eligible for a covid jab, either because they have an underlying health condition or because they live with someone who needs extra protection. so the vast majority of young teens, then, will begin the school year without being vaccinated. ministers are concerned that this may mean disruptive covid outbreaks in schools. the government has asked for specific scientific advice on the subject. a final decision is expected