Children aged five to 11 can now get their COVID-19 vaccine booster doses in any York Region clinic.
The region announced that bookings are now available for ages five to 11 as of Sept. 1.
Medical officer of health Dr. Barry Pakes has emphasized the importance of booster doses to immunity.
“While our high vaccination rates have contributed significantly to protecting us, our immunity is waning,” he said in an update last week. “Having a three or four dose coverage across the board in York Region would make a real difference.”
The recommended interval for eligible children to receive a booster is six months after their most recent dose, according to public health.
The province announced the expanded eligibility Aug. 31.
“Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters is still the best tool to keep people healthy and out of hospitals, and to ensure Ontario’s economy stays open,” Minister of Health Sylvia Jones said in a news release. “Expanding access to boosters for ages five to 11 will give parents more opportunities to protect themselves, their families and their communities this fall as kids go back to school and as people are spending more time indoors.”
The province encouraged parents with questions to reach out to their health care provider, the provincial vaccine contact centre or the SickKids vaccine consult to make an informed decision.
You can book an appointment through york.ca/covid19vaccine. You can also book through the provincial booking system or participating pharmacies. Walk-ins are available for any dose for those in the five to 11 range.
Approximately 59.1 per cent of those in the five to 11 age range have at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with 44.6 per cent at two doses, according to the region’s COVID-19 dashboard.
It is important that eligible kids get a vaccine with the school year ahead, Pakes said.
“Children age five to 11 who haven’t received their first or second dose, should do so now,” he said. “If a majority of children in your classroom are vaccinated, both students and teachers will be better protected and better able to stay more time in person.”
