National

Bivalent COVID booster OK'd for kids

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 09 Dec, 2022 11:16 AM

OTTAWA - Health Canada has approved a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine booster for use in children ages five to 11, which targets the original strain of the coronavirus and more recent variants.

The Pfizer vaccine is the first "bivalent" shot to be approved for use in children.

Health Canada says in a press release that after the thorough review, it has found the vaccine is safe and effective and that its benefits outweigh any potential risks when used as a booster dose.

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization strongly recommends children with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions be offered a dose of the new vaccine at least six months after they receive their first two COVID-19 shots.

The recommendation for other children in the age group is more discretionary, and NACI suggests the bivalent booster "may be" offered.

For now, only one COVID-19 booster shot is recommended for all kids in that age group.

Prev Next

MORE National ARTICLES

Surrey RCMP warn of high potency batch of Fentanyl circulating in North Surrey

Surrey RCMP is warning the public of a batch of high potency Fentanyl circulating and reminding people using street drugs to take appropriate precautions. There is high potency Fentanyl circulating in the North Surrey area, which increases the risk of overdose.

Surrey RCMP warn of high potency batch of Fentanyl circulating in North Surrey

Truss exit may stall Canada-U.K. trade deal

U.K. Prime Minister Liz Truss stepped down today after a mere six weeks in office following ministers' resignations over her controversial tax policies. The ruling Conservative Party says it will elect a new leader in a week, who will then install a new cabinet.

Truss exit may stall Canada-U.K. trade deal

Two homicides believed connected in Saanich, B.C.

One man is in custody. Police say the public is not believed to be at risk. A statement from the Saanich Police Department says its officers are working with major crime investigators.

Two homicides believed connected in Saanich, B.C.

David Eby to be named B.C. NDP leader Friday

Eby, the New Democrat government's former attorney general and minister responsible for housing, will officially be declared the leader of the B.C. New Democratic Party Friday, which paves the way for him to be sworn in as premier.

David Eby to be named B.C. NDP leader Friday

Dental benefit for children would cost $703M: PBO

The benefit would provide up to $650 annually to cover the dental costs for children whose families who don't already have coverage and earn less than $90,000 per year.

Dental benefit for children would cost $703M: PBO

B.C. NDP leadership contender ousted as candidate

A report by NDP chief electoral officer Elizabeth Cull obtained by The Canadian Press concluded Appadurai "engaged in serious improper conduct" by working with third parties for membership drives on her behalf. The report concluded that the harm from the misconduct can't be remedied with anything short of disqualification of the Appadurai Campaign.