The Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) confirmed earlier this month the safety and effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and recommends them for children and adolescents five years of age and older.
The acting Chief Medical Officer of Health continues to recommend that children and youth keep their vaccines up-to-date to protect against the impacts of COVID-19 during the current wave and in the coming months as people consider increasing contacts and travel.
The Government of Yukon is providing COVID-19 vaccines for all Yukoners five years of age and older. Vaccination remains the best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect children from severe outcomes related to the virus. These vaccines also prevent disruptions in educational, physical and social activities, which help promote mental wellness in children and youth.
Vaccination appointments can be booked online at www.yukon.ca/this-is-our-shot or by calling 1-877-374-0425.
Vaccination remains our strongest protection against COVID-19 for everyone, including children aged five years and older. I hope the recommendations from the Canadian Paediatric Society helps to reassure parents that these vaccines are safe and effective for children and youth. I urge all parents and guardians to take advantage of this opportunity to vaccinate their children and youth.
Minister of Health and Social Services, Tracy-Anne McPhee
I am pleased to see the Canadian Paediatric Society’s review of current evidence which is further support for child and adolescent vaccines. Vaccinations reduce the risk of infection and the risk of severe disease and its complications. Keeping children healthy means they will have more opportunities to benefit from school, sports, arts and recreational activities thereby reducing the overall impacts of the pandemic on their health and wellbeing now and into the future.
Acting Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Catherine Elliott
I know families and young children have made many sacrifices to keep our communities safe during this pandemic and we are all eager for our kids to get their lives back to normal. Vaccination is one more step we can take to protect children and those around them. I hope the clear support from the Canadian Paediatric Society for COVID-19 vaccines will help parents make this decision for their children, knowing that it is safe and effective.
Pediatrician and President of the Canadian Medical Association Dr. Katharine Smart
As of February 28, 2022, 81 per cent of youth ages 12 to 17 in the Yukon and 25 per cent of youth ages 5 to 11 had received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
In addition to vaccination, it is important that everyone, regardless of vaccination status, continue to follow public health measures such as masking and social distancing.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Samantha Henney
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-393-1616
samantha.henney@yukon.ca