COVID-19 vaccines for kids under 12 could be on the horizon
Posted Sep 17, 2021 7:32 pm.
Last Updated Sep 17, 2021 11:16 pm.
CALGARY — While the province of Alberta continues to downplay the likelihood of transmission of COVID at schools, there could be good news on the horizon for those not yet old enough to get the vaccine.
“There’s the two main vaccines that are being tested in clinical trials in kids under 12,” said Dr. James Kellner, a pediatrician, and on the Federal COVID-19 Immunity Task Force. “mRNA vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna.”
The Pfizer vaccine trial of five to 11-year-olds is a few weeks ahead of Moderna’s and has already increased its sample size after the U.S. regulatory body asked for that measure.
“It is possible you could see results by the end of September for the Pfizer vaccine, regulatory submission, and possibility of approval this Autumn for sure,” Kellner said.
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He says these trials are taking place in several countries across the globe and here in Canada — and the key is finding the right dose.
“Both Pfizer and Moderna are using lower doses, initial results show it’s just as effective … and may be associated with fewer side effects.”
Right now, Cuba, Chile, China, El Salvador, and the United Arab Emirates have approved vaccines for younger children.
Kellner says if the Pfizer trial goes well, kids in the U.S. could get shots in arms come October, but it may take a bit longer here in Canada.
CityNews reached out to AHS for comment, and in response they said:
“If they are approved, it will be Alberta Health that makes the decision on the eligibility in the province.”
CityNews did not hear back from the Ministry of Health ahead of this publication.
