Alberta COVID vaccines for kids under 5 starting in August

Alberta children under the age of five will be able to start getting vaccinated against COVID-19 in August.

Parents have been criticizing the Alberta government over the lack of a roll-out plan.

But that all changed Friday afternoon. 

In a news release, the government says parents and guardians can start booking shots for kids between six months old and five years old.

However, first boosters — meaning the third shot for most people — is still only available to those 12 years and over. Meanwhile, only Albertans 18 years and over are eligible for a second booster.

In a statement, Health Minister Jason Copping says parents are in the best position to decide whether or not the vaccine is right for their children.

“We are providing them with the information they need to help them make that choice,” said Jason Copping, Minister of Health.

Alberta’s top doctor says while most kids aren’t at high risk of severe outcomes from the virus those under five years old can be more susceptible. 

She encourages parents to speak with their doctor and figure out if the vaccine is right for their kids.

“While most children are not at high risk of severe outcomes, children under five have higher risks than those aged five to 11. I encourage parents and guardians to speak to a trusted healthcare provider for questions about their child’s health, including questions about COVID-19 and immunization,” said Dr. Deena Hinshaw, Chief Medical Officer of Health.


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Health Canada approved the Moderna vaccine for kids between six months and five years old on July 14. Americans have been inoculating that age group since mid-June.

Two weeks ago, Health Canada approved Moderna’s Spikevax vaccine for children between the ages of six months and five years old.

Alberta is the final Canadian province to unveil its plan to vaccinate this age group.

As other provinces have already started booking vaccine appointments for kids under five, the Alberta government has been vastly criticized for its delay.

Alberta Health says Thursday they have just under 47,000 doses available and expect additional doses in early August.

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