Health Canada authorized a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to use as a booster dose for children aged five to 11 years old. .“This booster dose provides a great option to restore protection for this age group, especially for those who are at high risk of severe illness,” said Canadian Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Theresa Tam in a Friday speech. .The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) said children five to 11 years old who have underlying health conditions should be offered a first booster shot at least six months after their first two doses. .NACI said all other children in this age group can be offered a first booster six months after their primary series. .While more information is being uncovered about long COVID, Tam said several studies have shown COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk. Ongoing research will help to strengthen the evidence on this issue. .Although the timing and severity of the next wave is uncertain, she went on to say a fall booster dose should be offered to high-risk people and can be offered to anyone eligible. .“COVID-19 prevention strategies, including maintaining up-to-date vaccination, remains the foundation of our protection individually and collectively,” she said. .“While less than half of five-11 year olds have completed their primary series of COVID-19 vaccines, NACI continues to strongly recommend a primary series with an authorized mRNA COVID-19 vaccine as a top priority.”.This announcement comes after the Danish government barred children under 18 years old from taking COVID-19 vaccines in June because of the low risk they face from the virus. .READ MORE: Denmark bans COVID vaccines for children.“Therefore, it will no longer be possible for children and young people under the age of 18 to get the first jab, and from 1 Sept. 2022 it will no longer be possible to get the second jab,” said the Danish government. .High-risk children can be vaccinated after being assessed by a doctor.
