Parents of children aged six months to under five can beginning booking pediatric COVID-19 vaccinations for them as of 8 a.m. on July 28, the province announced today.
At the same time, the Ontario government said it is extending paid COVID-19 sick days to March 31, 2023.
As well, immunocompromised youth aged 12 to 17 will also become eligible to schedule their second booster dose (fifth dose) if at least six months have passed since their first booster (fourth dose) at the same time.
The lower-dose pediatric vaccine from Moderna is an added “layer of protection,” Health Minister and Deputy Premier Sylvia Jones said in a news release.
“The approval of a lower dose paediatric Moderna vaccine will give families the opportunity to provide an additional layer of protection against COVID-19 for the youngest members of their families,” Jones said. “I encourage parents with questions to reach out to their health-care provider, the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre or the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service to make an informed choice for their family.”
The pediatric vaccine will be administered in a two-dose series with an eight-week interval.
Pediatric vaccines are being distributed across the province over the next several days and will be available through public health unit clinics, as well as participating paediatricians, primary care providers and pharmacies.
Starting July 28, appointments will be available through the COVID-19 vaccination portal and the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre. Bookings will also be available through public health units using their own booking systems, participating primary care providers and paediatricians, as well as at participating pharmacies and Indigenous-led vaccination clinics.
With lower-dose pediatric vaccine shipments expected later next week, Public Health Sudbury & Districts is in the process of planning vaccination clinic opportunities for infants and preschoolers, with plans to begin administering doses in late July through August.
"Clinic opportunities will vary by geographic area," Public Health said in a statement to Sudbury.com. "Booking online and through the local call centre will begin late next week; no walk-ins will be accepted at this time."
The health unit said additional clinic dates and times will be regularly added based on interest. The new vaccine product is anticipated to arrive later next week.
If you have questions about vaccinating your child, the province encourages you to speak with your health-care provider or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 to speak to a health specialist. The COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service can also connect you to SickKids registered nurse for a confidential phone appointment to have questions answered.
The Ontario government also announced an extension to the paid COVID-19 sick days program to March 31, 2023.
Eligible workers will continue to receive up to $200 a day for up to three days if they need to get tested, vaccinated, receive booster shots, self-isolate, or care for a family member who is ill from COVID-19. The government will continue to reimburse eligible employers for the paid leave days.
