All 12 to 15-year-olds in Wales will be offered a Covid-19 vaccine by the end of the October half-term, the Welsh Government has said.

Young people in Powys will receive a letter inviting them to have the jab at a mass vaccination centre in Newtown, Llanelwedd or Bronllys. In some areas in Wales, vaccinations will be carried out at schools.

Health Minister Eluned Morgan said: “Vaccines remain our strongest defence from the virus, helping prevent harm and stopping the spread of Covid-19. Some studies have shown show one in seven children who have been infected with the virus are thought to have also developed long-Covid.

“We have provided resources and information to help this age group make an informed choice about vaccination. I encourage parents, guardians, children and young people to discuss the vaccination together.”

Some of the most vulnerable 12 to 15-year-olds have already started receiving the vaccine and all health boards, including Powys, will have started rolling out the programme in their areas this week.

Dr Gill Richardson, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Vaccines, added: “We have seen the benefits that come from having as many people as possible vaccinated.

“After careful consideration of the evidence, the four UK chief medical officers recommended the vaccination of healthy 12 to 15-year-olds after consultation with experts, such as the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

“They concluded that the health benefits, combined with the additional benefits of reducing educational disruption and effects on mental health meant that vaccination should be offered.

“Children and their families will be receiving links to information with their invitation letters so they can make an informed decision about whether or not to have the vaccine.”

Pupils will have their Autumn half-term break between October 25 to 29.