Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/May 28, 2021 – Youth 12 and up are now eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccination in our region. We know the pandemic has been challenging for youth and young adults, and has meant time away from school, friends, sports, and other activities you enjoy. Getting the vaccine will help get us one step closer to life returning to normal again.
Although youth are less likely to experience serious illness from COVID-19, some young people do get very sick, and even if you don’t experience illness, you can pass the virus on to loved ones who are vulnerable. Vaccines are the best way to prevent this from happening.
If you are between 12-17 years old, you can receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, which is authorized by Health Canada for your age group. The vaccine teaches your body how to make a harmless protein found on the COVID-19 virus and learn how to fight against it. By learning how to fight the virus, your body becomes as prepared as possible to protect you, reducing the potential of severe illness and passing it on to others.
If you are unsure about getting the vaccine, check out 10 things you should know. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with a parent, trusted adult, or family health care provider. Vaccines are the most effective tool we have to protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID-19. The vaccine is voluntary, and it is safe.
HPEPH is offering special clinics to school aged youth, so you can get an appointment as soon as possible. Booking an appointment as soon as possible will help ensure you are able to get both doses of vaccine before the end of the summer. To book an appointment at these upcoming clinics, visit our website or call 613-966-5500 and follow prompts for vaccine booking. If you are unable to attend these clinics, you can also book at any of our regular community clinics, at https://covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/
To get the vaccine, you do not need a health card but will need to provide informed consent. This means that you have read and understand information about the COVID-19 vaccine. I encourage you to review the following links to ensure you have accurate information about the vaccine.
- COVID-19 Vaccine for Youth – 10 Things You Should Know
- Attending Your Appointment – What You Need to Know
- COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Youth
- COVID-19 Vaccine Consent form for Youth
Dr. Piotr Oglaza
Medical Officer of Health and CEO
Media Contacts:
Emily Tubbs, Communications Specialist
etubbs@hpeph.ca
Maureen Hyland, Communications Specialist
mhyland@hpeph.ca
