Bookings open for vaccine for children

Parents and guardians of children aged five to 11 can now book their child's COVID-19 vaccine appointment.

"The pandemic has been challenging for families and young children. School closures and social isolation from friends, families and activities they enjoy has been difficult," said Premier Tim Houston. "I strongly encourage families to consider vaccination for their children to protect them and everyone around them from the virus."

Children will receive Pfizer's pediatric COVID-19 vaccine, which is currently the only one approved in Canada for this age group. The formulation of this vaccine is very similar to the adolescent/adult Pfizer vaccine.

Children will need two doses of vaccine at least eight weeks apart and will be considered fully vaccinated 14 days after their second dose. Children who receive both doses before they turn 12 will receive two doses of the pediatric vaccine.

Children who receive their first dose of pediatric vaccine at age 11 and turn 12 before receiving their second dose will receive the adolescent/ adult vaccine for their second dose. Doses will still be provided at least eight weeks apart.

Unless directed by a healthcare provider, children won't be able to get other routine vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine, and the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. Children will need to receive other vaccines 14 days before or after the COVID-19 vaccine. If families have to choose between vaccinations, the COVID-19 vaccine should be the priority, the province says.

Families are encouraged to schedule an appointment for their child as soon as they are able. It takes a minimum of 10 weeks for a child in this age group to be fully vaccinated (the eight-week interval between doses, plus two weeks after the second dose).

The province will have enough pediatric COVID-19 vaccine and appointments to provide every child aged five to 11 their first dose by the end of 2021.

Families can book appointments online on the province's COVID website.

Booking by phone is only recommended if online booking is not an option. People who book by phone should expect high call volumes.

There are about 65,000 eligible children aged five to 11 in Nova Scotia.