Interior health and local pediatricians urge households to get vaccinated by Family Day

Photo: CTV News

Interior Health has set an ambitious goal.

IH is encouraging families to get everyone in their household aged five and up vaccinated against COVID-19 before Family Day on Feb. 21.

“Getting your children vaccinated before Family Day is a good goal for families to have a safe and healthy 2022,” said Dr. Sue Pollock, Interior Health interim chief medical health officer.

“The pediatric COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, and we encourage families to make their vaccination plans now to get children immunized as soon as they can,” said pediatrician Dr. Shannon Wires. “Now is the time to ensure children are registered to receive a vaccine invitation and everyone should book at their earliest opportunity.”

Children are eligible on or after their fifth birthday.

“Children who received their pediatric vaccine early in the campaign are now becoming eligible for their second dose. It is important children receive both doses of the vaccine to be fully protected,” added Pollock.

Parents and guardians can register children aged 5-11 through the government get vaccinated website, or by calling 1-833-838-2323.

Notifications to book appointments for second doses will go out eight weeks after the first dose.

Parents and guardians who are booked to receive their booster shot at an all-ages clinic in Interior Health do not need a separate appointment for eligible children. Only one parent or guardian appointment is necessary.

Find more information on registering and booking appointments with your children here.

For a list of all Interior Health COVID-19 immunization clinics and other resources visit:https://www.interiorhealth.ca/health-and-wellness/disease-outbreaks/covid-19