Delivery dates are being finalized, but the Saskatchewan Health Authority says it will start administering COVID-19 vaccines in elementary and high schools across Saskatchewan in June.

Once dates are confirmed, the information will be communicated directly to parents through their child’s school.

There will be more than 90,000 vaccines in total for individuals 12 years of age and older.  Children in this age group will only receive the Pfizer brand of vaccine. This is the last group currently approved for immunization, with the hopes of expanding to younger populations in the fall, as vaccines are nationally approved for their use.

SHA drive-thru, walk-in and booked appointments will be reduced during the school immunizations over the course of approximately three weeks to ensure this group is immunized prior to the end of the school year.

Pharmacy booked appointments will continue to be available to all eligible age categories.

SHA CEO Scott Livingstone said parents and primary caregivers will play a key part in this next stage of the province’s immunization strategy.

“We encourage you to talk with your children to address any questions or fears they may have in advance of their immunizations,” suggested Livingstone. “Celebrate with your kids when they say yes to a COVID-19 immunization and choose to protect themselves, their family and our province.”

Written consent will be required for all ages 12-17, primarily for tracking purposes, in case the child receives one dose at school and one elsewhere.  There will only be one consent required for both doses.  Parents are encouraged to talk directly with their children about consent and the importance of receiving their COVID vaccination.

Additional options are available for students who are home-schooled, for students who wish to access immunization sooner, or if parents wish to accompany their child to their appointment.  These options include:

• Any participating pharmacy in Saskatchewan;
• By attending a drive-thru or walk-in clinic – note that these clinics will operate on reduced schedules in June in order to support school-based immunization during the week days;
• Online booking is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week; or
• By calling 1-833-SASKVAX (727-5829).

(With files from Moises Canales)