Waterloo region to hold immunization clinic for children once COVID-19 vaccine approved for kids
Region plans to administer up to 6,000 doses in one weekend
The Waterloo region will hold a children's vaccination clinic that could administer up to 6,000 doses in one weekend once Health Canada approves Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for kids between 5 and 11.
"Our intent is to get as many children their first dose as quickly as possible in a supportive, positive environment," said Vickie Murray, Waterloo region's vaccination task force lead.
The date of the clinic will be confirmed once the region hears back about the final approval of the children's COVID-19 vaccine, according to health officials. It will be held at the Pinebush Vaccine Clinic in Cambridge.
Health Canada's chief medical adviser said on Friday that Canada's review of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of five to 11 should be completed within "one to two weeks."
Addressing parents' concerns
Officials said they were encouraged by results from the United States, which has already approved the Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children.
While children aged 12 and older are already approved for the adult formulation, the pediatric formulation would be given in two smaller doses — 10 mcg (micrograms), instead of the 30 mcg used for those over the age of 12.
Kelly Grindrod, a professor at University of Waterloo school of pharmacy, said it's too early to say how far apart the doses will be administered to children.
She said the school of pharmacy has information sheets available for parents seeking additional information.
"I have a nine-year-old, we are going to be front of line if we can, to get her vaccinated," she said. "There's a lot of parents that are really interested."