What COVID-19 vaccines are currently available for children in Canada?
For more information on Health Canada approved vaccines, please visit the Government of Canada’s website.
Who will be able to get the COVID-19 vaccine and how can I get an appointment?
Visit the Get the Shot page to determine who is currently eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment and how to book.
Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?
COVID-19 vaccines will only be used in Newfoundland and Labrador if they are approved by Health Canada, and the evidence shows that they are safe, effective, of good quality, and demonstrates that the benefits of using it outweighs the risks. For more information on Health Canada’s review process for COVID-19 vaccines, please see the Government of Canada’s website.
Will I be able to choose which vaccine I receive?
Currently there are two Health Canada approved COVID-19 vaccine for children:
The Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty vaccine is the preferred COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 years.
The Moderna Spikevax vaccine is recommended for children 6 months of age and older.
I am not a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador, am I eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine while I am in this province?
The vaccine will be made available, free of cost, for anyone in Newfoundland and Labrador, regardless of their immigration and/or residency status. This includes refugee claimants, dependent children of temporary residents, undocumented residents, and residents with lapsed legal status.
Am I eligible for a COVID-19 booster dose?
A Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty COVID-19 booster dose was approved for children aged 5 to 11 years on August 19, 2022.
Children 5 years of age and older are eligible for a Fall booster with an authorized COVID-19 vaccine regardless of the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses previously received. Individuals will be encouraged to receive their booster dose 20 weeks from their last vaccine dose and 3 months from COVID-19 infection. Fall booster vaccines can be given at the same time as other immunizations. This will include the seasonal flu vaccine, once it becomes available this fall.
Children 6 months to under 5 years of age should receive their primary series of COVID-19 vaccine. This age group is not eligible for a booster dose at this time.
Visit the Get the Shot page for more information and to book an appointment.
Should I get the vaccine if I am immunocompromised or have an autoimmune condition?
Vaccination is encouraged. However, if you are immunosuppressed (have a weakened immune system) or have an autoimmune condition you may talk to your health care provider prior to your vaccination appointment to discuss the potential risks and benefits of having the COVID-19 vaccine. Specific populations are recommended to have a three dose primary series. Visit the Get the Shot page for specific recommendations.