The Saskatchewan government announced they'll be offering pediatric COVID-19 vaccines, following Health Canada approving the Pfizer vaccine for five to 11-year-olds. 

More than 112,000 doses of the vaccine have arrived in the province. The government says that the number of vaccines that have arrived is enough to immunize everybody in that age group. Parent or guardian consent is needed for the vaccination. 

It was just released that parents can begin booking appointments to have their children vaccinated as of 8 a.m. Tuesday, November 3rd. Vaccinations will start going into arms on Wednesday, November 24th in  Regina and Saskatoon. Clinics in smaller communities will begin administering vaccines as of Thursday, November 25th. The far north zones of the province will begin on Friday, November 26th. 

Visit the Sask Health Authority Website for more information about clinics.

"This is welcome news for families that want the protection that immunization provides for their children against serious disease," Health Minister Paul Merriman said. "The immunization of this age cohort will also help to reduce transmission of the virus and ensure that children can continue to enjoy their friends and activities. 

The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) will offer pediatric vaccines across the province in 221 clinics in 141 communities. A variety of clinics will be offered, including walk-in, booked appointments and extended hours for added convenience. Vaccinations will also be available for five to 11-year-olds from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority (NITHA), and participating pharmacies. 

Clinics will also be delivered in more than 100 schools with a focus on ensuring parent or guardian attendance to support the children. Information on in-school clinics will be shared with parents and students directly. 

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, children under 12 years now account for the highest number of new COVID-19 infections. Clinical trials showed children five to 11 years old had very good immune responses to the vaccine with 90.7 percent efficacy when they received two doses at least 21 days apart. The optimal interval between doses is eight weeks. However, families may choose to receive the second dose as early as 21 days after the initial dose.