Pediatric COVID-19 Immunizations Available to Book Appointments as of November 23; Administration Begins November 24

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) has received the Pfizer pediatric COVID-19 vaccine and will begin accepting online and over-the-phone appointments as of 8:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 23. The SHA will begin to administer the vaccine to children aged 5 to 11 with parent consent as of Wednesday, November 24, in Saskatoon and Regina, with clinics in smaller communities beginning Thursday, November 25; and in the Far North starting Friday, November 26. Clinic availability subject to transportation or weather-related delays.

With an initial shipment of 112,000 doses there will be enough vaccine to provide a first dose to all 5 to 11 year olds who want it.

Initially the SHA will focus on clinics in larger communities that can accommodate large numbers of patients, before shifting to a more targeted approach in the weeks ahead. Parental consent is required for this age group.

There are options for parents or caregivers to have their child immunized at:

• SHA walk-in clinics: the walk-in clinic schedule will indicate “Pfizer 5-11” where the pediatric vaccine is available
• Online booking is available for single appointments
• Multiple children and other eligible family members can be booked for an appointment together by calling 1-833-SASKVAX (727-5829)
• Participating pharmacies: locations offering the pediatric Pfizer vaccine will be indicated on the online map of pharmacy locations.
   

The SHA is also engaged with school divisions throughout the province to implement clinics at or near schools – as immunization clinics are finalized details on school-based clinics will be provided directly to families through their schools.

Please note that the pediatric Pfizer vaccine requires children receive two doses to be fully immunized. The second dose can be provided as soon as 21 days after the first, but it is recommended to wait 8 weeks for optimal protection. Parents can also receive their COVID-19 immunization alongside their children, and flu shots are also available at the same time, in the same appointment.

For more information on COVID-19 immunizations visit saskatchewan.ca/COVID-19 vaccine. Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to follow the SHA on social media for reliable information and links to resources that will help reduce the anxiety many children feel when being immunized.