COVID-19 vaccine available for 12+, resources and trusted information

COVID-19 vaccine available for 12+, resources and trusted information
Posted on 05/27/2021
COVID-19 vaccine available for 12+, resources and trusted information

The COVID-19 vaccine is now available to everyone in Ontario aged 12 and above.

You can book your appointment using the Ontario website: https://covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/

Questions about vaccines? Here is some information that provincial and health authorities have asked us to share...

We encourage anyone with questions to take a look at the following resources.

Government of Ontario

Ottawa Public Health 

Kids Health First

The Kids Health First website offers information and frequently asked questions directed to parents and youth about vaccines for individuals 12-17. This content has been fact-checked and verified by Ontario experts from health organizations, including CHEO and SickKids.

Additional Update from Ottawa Public Health - May 27, 2021

How to book your appointment: 

Appointments can be booked through the provincial online tool for community clinics as well as through select pharmacies. The Pfizer -BioNTech vaccine is currently the only COVID-19 vaccine that has been authorized by Health Canada for use in individuals aged 12 and over. 

Your child must be 12 years old or older on the day of the appointment to book online. If your child is currently 11 years old but turning 12 years old soon and would be that age on the day of the vaccine then call 1-833-943-3900 to book an appointment. 

*If you do not have a valid health card but are eligible for a vaccine, please call Ottawa Public Health at 613-691-5505 to book an appointment. 

Consent: 

As per the Health Care Consent Act of Ontario, children and youth aged 12 to 17 years will be able to consent for themselves at their vaccine appointment. Your child or youth will only be given a vaccine if they are able to make the decision and show informed consent. Your child or youth should understand: 

  • The treatment (Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine)  
  • Why it is recommended   
  • Risks and benefits if they get the vaccine, or do not get the vaccine 

The vaccine provider and family must respect the young person’s decision about the vaccine. This means, it is possible your child could refuse the vaccine. OPH recommends that parents and guardians discuss the COVID-19 vaccine with their eligible child(ren) before the vaccine appointment. The COVID-19 vaccine is voluntary.  

If a child or youth is unable to consent for themselves, a substitute decision maker (parent or guardian) needs to provide consent. 

If you have further questions, you can also contact your family doctor, pediatrician or nurse practitioner.

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