Toronto Public Health is preparing for the next candidates for mass immunization: children ages 5 to 11, as soon as Health Canada approves a COVID-19 vaccine for them.
TPH announced Monday the formation of a “COVID-19 vaccination planning group” that includes health agencies, school boards, community representatives and the Ontario Ministry of Health.
The approval of the vaccine, expected by experts later this year or early 2022, is seen as a key advance in reducing outbreaks and infections in schools that can lead to school closings and potentially a return to remote learning in the whole city.
The approval could also hasten the end of the pandemic by allowing the city to further increase the vaccination rate that is among the highest in the world.
In Toronto, about 200,000 children between the ages of 5 and 11 would be eligible for vaccination.
“Recommendations for the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine are provided by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization,” TPH said in a press release.
“TPH will inform the public about vaccination plans for this age group once Health Canada approves the vaccine and will be subject to guidelines issued by the provincial government.”
Dr. Eileen de Villa, the city’s public health chief, said in a statement: “Vaccination plays an incredibly important role in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting our community so that children can participate in activities that benefit your health and well-being. be as safe as possible.
“My Toronto Public Health team is pleased to work with our partners to prepare for vaccinations for children ages 5-11 as soon as vaccines are approved for this age group.”
Later.
Reference-www.thestar.com