Albertans can start booking COVID-19 vaccine boosters for children between five and 11, the provincial government announced Friday.
The expansion of booster availability is being expanded based on recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization and the Alberta Advisory Committee on Immunization.
“Parents and guardians can soon book an appointment for their children just in time for the start of the new school year. Within days, we will begin offering booster doses and help provide ongoing protection from COVID-19, especially as our kids return to the classroom,” said Jason Copping, minister of health.
Bookings will open on Aug. 29 and booster doses will start being given on Aug. 31.
Health Canada approved the use of the Pfizer (Comirnaty) vaccine for booster doses in children aged five to 11 on Aug. 19. This is the first COVID-19 vaccine authorized in Canada as a booster dose in this age group.
The provincial government said Alberta and national expert committees support booster doses for this age group, with a strong recommendation for children with immune-compromising conditions. It is recommended that the booster dose be offered at least five calendar months after completion of the primary series.
Immune-compromised children are already eligible for a three-dose primary series, so their boosters will be fourth doses.
Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, said vaccines remain one of the most important layers of protection we can access for ourselves and our children.
“This booster dose is an important option for families, especially those who have children with medical risk factors,” said Hinshaw.
Pediatric booster vaccinations will be administered at Alberta Health Services clinics around the province. Vaccines will also be available at select pharmacies where AHS clinics are not conveniently located. Booster appointments must be booked through the Alberta Vaccine Booking System at alberta.ca/vaccine or by calling Health Link at 811. Some pharmacies can accommodate walk-ins.
Children from five to 11 years of age who live in First Nations communities can access a booster dose through public health clinics or nursing stations.
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