Canada has authorised the use of Pfizer Inc's Covid-19 vaccine for children aged five to 11, paving the way for the inoculation of elementary school-aged children across the country, reports Reuters.

The shot is the first to be made available for young children in Canada.

Officials had made clear for weeks that the decision would be favourable, noting that incidences of Covid-19 are highest in those under 12.

“After a thorough and independent scientific review of the evidence, the department has determined that the benefits of this vaccine for children between five and 11 years of age outweigh the risks,” Health Canada said.