Health Canada is expected to green-light the use of the Pfizer vaccine for kids on Friday.
The federal government has scheduled a media briefing with officials for 11 a.m. to share news on its authorization.
The update will also include details on recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
Pfizer submitted its application last month for approval of its pediatric vaccine in 5 to 11-year-olds.
MEDIA ADVISORY – Friday, 10 am: Government of Canada officials will hold a technical briefing for media to provide an update on regulatory authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccinehttps://t.co/50Pdr8akI8 pic.twitter.com/2TY20T0EdF
— Andrew MacKendrick (he/him) (@amackendrick) November 18, 2021
The Toronto Star was the first to report the news on Thursday, citing multiple sources.
Canada is set to receive nearly 3 million child-sized doses. That’s enough for every eligible kid.
Meantime, the federal government is also expected to announce the easing of some COVID-19 measures at the Canadian border.
There are reports Canada is looking at eliminating the need for a negative test if your trip to the U.S. is less than 72 hours in length.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would only say border issues were discussed during his visit to Washington this week.
“Our priority remains ensuring the safety of Canadians and following science,” Trudeau says. “But we are looking at making steps to loosen up requirements while at the same time keeping Canadians safe.”
An official announcement is expected Friday.
**With files from Randy Thoms.