By Pioneer Staff
On Monday, Nov. 29, children aged five to 11 years old began receiving vaccines across British Columbia.
“The pediatric COVID-19 vaccine directly protects children and will mean less disruption to the activities that are important to them, such as school, sports and social events,” said provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry in a statement. “Once children are vaccinated, parents can feel more assured their children are safe, and children can feel empowered knowing they are taking another step to protect their grandparents, teachers, friends and loved ones.”
The children are going to receive Pfizer’s pediatric vaccine, the first COVID-19 vaccine in Canada to be approved for children of that age group. The Pfizer vaccine for children five to 11 was approved by Health Canada on Nov. 19, 2021. It will provide a level of protection tailored to children’s immune systems using a lower dose (10 micrograms), which is one-third the dose formulated for older children and adults. Children should receive two doses of the vaccine, separated by eight weeks or more between the first and second dose, according to the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).
The vaccination of young children will take place at community clinics across the province, not at pharmacies. Parents or guardians must give verbal or written consent, according to the province.
There are around 350,000 kids in the province eligible to start receiving the vaccine. More than 92,000 children have been registered in the province’s Get Vaccinated system. Registration ensures parents are notified by text or email when it is time to book their child’s appointment.
Parents or guardians with questions about the COVID-19 vaccine for their child can call 1-833-838-2323, or visit gov.bc.ca/vaccineforkids.
Parents can also consult with their child’s pediatrician, family doctor or nurse practitioner so they can make the best decision for their child.
