Hamilton public health prepares for child COVID-19 vaccine rollout with 2 new clinics & online booking system

Hamilton | Ontario | COVID | Health | Latest News |

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Published November 1, 2021 at 4:29 pm

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for children aged five to 11 last Friday, citing data that shows the shot is 90 per cent effective in preventing COVID-19 in children and there have been no serious side effects. Health Canada received Pfizer-BioNTech's submission for approval and associated data slightly later than the FDA, and Canadian officials are still reviewing it. (Credit: Pfizer-BioNTech)

Hamilton public health is preparing its COVID-19 vaccine rollout for those ages five to 11 with the launch of two new fixed-site clinics this month. There will also be a new local online booking system.

Public health says it’s working with local school boards and McMaster Children’s Hospital to scale up operations with family-friendly clinics and an age-specific vaccine confidence campaign.

In addition, public health says it is working with local health system partners in preparation for the expansion of third doses (boosters).

A new Hamilton Mountain COVID-19 vaccination clinic at CF Lime Ridge Mall will open on Nov. 3. There will also be a new clinic set up in the lower city; however, details were not yet available. At capacity, these clinics can each administer 550 vaccines per day, according to public health. Walk-ins and scheduled appointments will be accepted.

The city is also launching its own booking system using Verto Health to replace the province’s tool. It’s effective Monday (Nov. 1) and can be accessed by visiting hamilton.ca/getyourvaccine.

“I want to emphasize the continued importance of getting vaccinated and encourage everyone to get their first and second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are eligible,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger.

“The City of Hamilton is committed to expanding access to the COVID-19 vaccine. It is our individual and collective efforts to engage, share information and support family, friends and neighbours that has reinforced the resiliency and strength of the Hamilton community. We have made great strides in protecting the health and safety of our community, let’s continue to work together to keep everyone healthy and safe.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine for children aged five to 11 last Friday, citing data that shows the shot is 90 per cent effective in preventing COVID-19 in children and there have been no serious side effects.

Health Canada received Pfizer-BioNTech’s submission for approval and associated data slightly later than the FDA, and Canadian officials are still reviewing it.

81.3 per cent of the eligible Hamilton population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

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