The Middlesex-London Health Unit's mass vaccination clinic at Earl Nichols Arena. (Photo by Craig Needles, Blackburn Media)The Middlesex-London Health Unit's mass vaccination clinic at Earl Nichols Arena. (Photo by Craig Needles, Blackburn Media)
London

MLHU backtracks on vaccine eligibility for 11-year-olds

One day after saying kids born in 2009 but have not yet turned 12 can get vaccinated against COVID-19, the Middlesex London Health Unit has done a 180.

On Thursday, the health unit announced that any child born in 2009, but had not yet reached their 12th birthday, could receive a vaccine at any of its mass vaccination clinics.

However, the health unit reversed that decision on Friday, tweeting that it would no longer be offering doses to kids who haven't turned 12 yet.

As for why the health unit changed course, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Chris Mackie spoke with 519 Podcast host Craig Needles, telling him provincial and federal authorities directed the health unit to do so.

[audio mp3="https://blackburnnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Mackie-on-12yo-Vaccines.mp3"][/audio]

According to the health unit, appointments can still be made for children turning 12 in the next few weeks and into the fall however, they will not be able to receive a vaccine until their birthday.

"I apologize for this rapid change in direction, and any frustration or confusion that it may have caused," said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Chris Mackie in a release Friday evening.

The health unit added that it is important to note that the decision is not related to a specific issue with vaccine safety or effectiveness and that no adverse effects have been reported.

https://twitter.com/MLHealthUnit/status/1426312709411385345

 

 

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