FAQ Q1-Aren’t younger children less likely to develop serious illness from COVID compared to adults? A1-While it is true that younger children are less likely to have bad outcomes from COVID (like hospitalization, death) compared to adults, the risk is NOT zero. Sadly, there are children who have and will develop serious illness, long COVID symptoms, and even death. Deaths have been reported in children with and without underlying medical conditions. Research shows that the vaccine is both safe and effective, and we feel the risk benefit balance strongly favours getting the vaccine over illness.

Q2-Are the vaccines safe for a young child? (Short term) A2-The research shows that in the short term, the vaccine side effects are very similar to many of the vaccines that your children have previously received; injection site soreness, muscle aches, and fever are common examples. The question about myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and/or pericarditis (inflammation of the sac around the heart), has not yet been answered in this younger age group. It is an uncommon and typically mild (does not require hospitalization) side effect seen in teens and young adults. Keep in mind that getting ill from COVID can lead to myocarditis, which is typically MUCH more severe and life threatening when compared to the vaccine side effect.

Q3-Are the vaccines safe for a young child? (Long term) A3 Obviously, there are no data to answer the question of long term safety of COVID vaccines. Keep in mind that with ANY “new” vaccine, there will be no long term data. To date, there has NOT been a situation where a “new” vaccine -including several vaccines that are part of today’s routine schedule-has caused a long term problem or complication. While this is no guarantee, we feel very confident that vaccination risks are MUCH lower than the risk of COVID illness.

Q4 Should my eleven year old wait until 12yrs old to get the adult dose? A4 The consensus from experts is to get the first covid 19 vaccine available.

Q5 Is there a time frame between other vaccines that I have to wait? For example – flu shot….. A5 The National Advisory Committee on Immunization has recommended Covid 19 vaccine for children age 5 -11 years old should NOT be given at the same time with other vaccines. In the absence of evidence it is considered prudent to wait for a period of at least 14 days before or after administration of another vaccine.

Q6: What is the time we need to wait if my child is positive for Covid 19 virus? A6: After the 10 days quarantine and the patient is feeling well again.

Q7: Should I get the 2nd Covid 19 vaccine sooner than 8 weeks after the first one? A7: There is better immunity if you wait the full 8 weeks.

Q8: Should I get the Covid 19 vaccine prior to my child’s fifth birthday? A8: It is not recommended to receive the Covid 19 vaccine prior to the fifth birthday. Even if you manage to book an appointment, the clinics are turning away children on the day if they are not yet five years old.

As you are making this important decision about the vaccine for your children, here is a FACT to consider: vaccines truly are a miracle of science, and save more lives than ANY other medical or surgical intervention. For a truly frightening thought, ask yourself where would we all be today if there was no COVID vaccine?

“You are entitled to your own opinion. But you are not entitled to your own facts” Daniel Patrick Moynihan

Additionally Covid 19 vaccine information can be found at: aboutkidshealth.ca Ontario Ministry of Health Vaccine Portal opens November 23rd 2021. Children age 5-11yrs will be eligible to book an appointment at tphbookings.ca or Ontario.ca/bookvaccine or by calling 1-833-943-3900