Parents and caregivers of Manitoba children aged six months to four years became eligible to book COVID-19 vaccinations for those children as of 9 a.m. Aug. 5, the provincial government said in a press release issued the previous day.
Manitoba has received 14,900 doses of Moderna vaccine for children in this age group so far, with 3,700 of those having been shipped to regional vaccine sites and medical clinics and another 2,100 provided to First Nations medical leadership for distribution to their members.
Two doses of the vaccine are recommended for children in this age group, so about half of the current supply will be held back to ensure that those who receive a first dose can also receive a second.
A second and final shipment of 28,000 doses of Moderna vaccine has been delayed but is expected to arrive soon.
The province says Health Canada is reviewing a Pfizer vaccine for children aged six months to four years. If it is approved, additional vaccines will be available this fall.
The province recommends that children in this age group not receive vaccines within a two-week period before or after other vaccines for better monitoring of side effects but children who have received a different vaccine within 14 days will not be refused a COVID-19 shot.
Appointments are available at regional vaccine sites, public health offices and medical clinics.
Appointments can be booked directly with medical clinics and public health offices, by using the online vaccine finder or by calling the vaccine call centre at 1-844-626-8222. Those who need to make appointments for more than one child should opt for the phone line, the province says.
