COVID-19 vaccine offers hope to kids, the pandemic's 'silent sufferers,' psychologists say
CBC
For Calgary mom Jessy Roos, booking the COVID-19 vaccine for her seven-year-old daughter offered a spark of hope in what has been a long and isolating pandemic for the entire family.
"There was serious happy dancing in the kitchen," she said with a laugh.
Roos made an appointment on Wednesdasy as soon as COVID-19 vaccine bookings opened for Alberta children between the ages of 5 and 11.
The family of six, including three children under the age of five, has remained close to home during the pandemic in an effort to protect vulnerable family members.
Roos's oldest daughter, who is seven, has been attending school online and missed out on many social interactions.
"I'm happy that she's going to be protected from this illness that we know so little about. I'm happy that it's another layer of protection for the more vulnerable people in our community and our family," said Roos.
"But I'm happy for her personally because she has missed the in-school experience. That has not been a small sacrifice for her."
Roos's daughter is not alone. Alberta children have missed birthday parties and play dates. They've have been bounced in and out of school and they've watched as other family members, including older siblings, were able to get their COVID-19 shots.
"They really have been the silent sufferers of this pandemic and have given up a lot," said Dr. Nicole Racine, a clinical psychologist and post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Calgary.
"They're aware, they know what COVID is and they can also understand what vaccination does and the important protection that it brings. So my hope is that kids do feel a sense of relief."
According to Alberta Health, 55,032 appointments for pediatric COVID doses had been made as of 9 a.m. on Thursday.
With the eligibility expansion, 391,000 Alberta children ages 5 to 11 can start getting their shots as of Friday.
There is an eight-week interval required between doses — meaning it's not possible for younger children to be fully vaccinated until the new year — and public health restrictions still remain in place.
Calgary clinical psychologist Dr. Katie Birnie says this is a key step forward for children and signals a move into the next phase of the pandemic for them.
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