Children Ages 5-11 Now Eligible for COVID-19 Booster Dose
Written by Comms Team, September 1, 2022
Children Encouraged to Get Vaccinated Prior to Back-To-School
The provincial government announced on August 31, 2022 that children aged 5-11 are now eligible for a third dose (first booster) of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. To be eligible, children must have received their second dose at least 6 months (168 days) prior to receiving a third dose. In addition, children with immunocompromising conditions are now eligible for a fourth dose (first booster). These individuals are required to show proof of eligibility at their COVID-19 vaccine appointment. A referral form from a health care provider or proof of prescription medication will be accepted as proof of eligibility. Eligibility for COVID-19 vaccines is based on birth year.
Beginning today the provincial booking system will have appointments available for children aged 5-11 for the Peterborough Public Health (PPH) COVID-19 Vaccination clinic. This clinic is located on the lower level of Peterborough Square at 340 George St. One hour free underground parking is available.
Residents are encouraged to review the PPH immunization schedule and clinic calendar for updates on eligibility and appointment availability at peterboroughpublichealth.ca/vaccineclinics. COVID-19 vaccine appointments can be booked:
- Online at covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/ OR
- Over the phone by calling the provincial vaccine booking call centre at 1-833-943-3900
Vaccination is only one important tool for prevention against COVID-19. Other measures of prevention include: continuing to wear a tightly fitting (KN95/N95 style) mask, staying home when sick and gathering in well ventilated indoor spaces or outdoors. PPH encourages residents in the community to review the Local COVID-19 Risk Index on a weekly basis and use the personal recommendations provided to make the best decision for your health.
“With back to school around the corner, it is important to ensure all children are up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccines,” says Dr. Thomas Piggott, Medical Officer of Health. “As a reminder, it takes approximately 14 days for a dose to take full effect. Getting the vaccine now will provide an additional layer of protection for children returning to school in September.”
For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine for youth and children, please visit the Peterborough Public Health youth and COVID-19 vaccine webpage.
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For further information, please contact:
Sarah Gill
A/Communications Manager
705-743-1000, ext. 352