Since Health Canada announced it is reviewing the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for use in children between five and 11 years old, many questions are being asked.
Dr. Chelsea Ellis, medical microbiologist at The Moncton Hospital, says while youth between 12 and 17 get the same dose as adults, it will likely be different for the younger age group.
“For youth, ages five to 11, the vaccine is being studied at a lower dose and it’s approximately one-third of the dose that the adults and teenagers are receiving.”
For any age group, Ellis says it’s quite common to experience side effects for a few days after getting the vaccine.
She recognizes that some children may have fears about getting vaccinated.
“Horizon Health can accommodate individuals who have special circumstances around needles and fears. We can make arrangements to have the vaccine administered laying down or in a private area.”
Ellis encourages parents to sit down and talk to their kids about what to expect once they schedule a vaccination appointment.
The timeline for approval is not set in stone but Health Canada took two months to approve the Pfizer vaccine for adults last year.
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