Health Canada statement:
“After a thorough and independent scientific review of the evidence, the department has determined that the benefits of this vaccine for children between five and 11 years of age outweigh the risks”.
The case for vaccinating kids rests on three pillars:
➡️ The vaccine protects kids very well. In the Phase 2/3 trial, vaccinated kids were 10x less likely to become infected than unvaccinated kids (placebo shot). Also, their immune responses were as strong as those in teens, despite the far lower dose.
➡️ Getting vaccinated is far safer for kids than getting infected with the real deal. Both come with small risks, but those of the vaccine are far smaller. The major concern with mRNA vaccines is a condition called myocarditis / pericarditis. This condition is more common, and more severe, after COVID-19 infection than after mRNA vaccination.
➡️ COVID-19 vaccines help reduce the spread of COVID-19 within communities and pave the way for safe schools, sports, and social lives.
Here’s the scoop on what to expect in Canada:
➡️ All Canadian kids ages 5-11 are eligible for vaccination, including kids who were previously infected with COVID-19.
➡️ Wee shots are expected to be available in “days”. Roll-out plans will vary from province to province.
➡️ Children will receive two doses of 10 mcg. This dose is one third of the adult and teen dose. Unlike medications, vaccine dosing is based on age (immune system maturity) not body size.
➡️ An expert body called the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommended spacing doses at least eight weeks apart, based on evidence in adults that longer intervals generate a more robust immune response. Shorter intervals are possible in specific circumstances.
👇 Check out DP links below for what to expect for side effects, how to prepare an anxious child for vaccination, and much more.
A personal note: I’m a Canadian mother of three kids in this age group. I can’t wait to vaccinate my big guy (age 10) and my twin girls (age 5) ASAP. We are so grateful for access to safe, effective vaccines.
Jubilantly yours,
Chana
Chana Davis, PhD @fueledbyscience
NACI Statement on use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (10 mcg) in children 5-11 years of age
DP Links:
Nerdy Girl Q&A about vaccines in ages 5-11
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
What are the side effects of COVID-19 vaccines in kids ages 5-11?
US CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccine for kids
FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids
