Ahead of Tuesday roll-out of vaccine campaign for ages 5-11, Bennett say COVID shots are the 'safest and most effective way to keep our children healthy'

Shots to be distributed across country with campaign to kick off on Tuesday; health officials to discuss gap between shots, recommendations for children who recovered from virus

US follows Israel's lead and places emphasis on those aged 50 and above, urging older populations to get extra shot; expansion makes tens of millions more Americans eligible

But new infections, serious cases, hospitalizations still low compared to the peak of the fourth wave in September

PM promises 'total transparency' to relieve parents of concerns related to the Pfizer shot; delivery of kid-sized doses was delayed but first shipment expected Sunday

Decision still needs CDC approval for Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, with panel to meet later Friday, amid rising cases and fears of a fresh virus wave in winter

R-number, a key indicator of how many people each infected person passes COVID on to, nears one, but new infections, hospitalizations remain low

Health Ministry reportedly informs health management organizations doses will only arrive next Tuesday

Special kid-sized doses reportedly to arrive in coming days; Health Ministry chief says officials keen to get campaign underway as soon as possible

Amid vaccine hesitancy, parents who both claim they have children's best interests at heart are heading to court in battles over inoculation