Residents of Nova Scotia can now book the COVID-19 vaccine for children under five years old.

The province opened bookings on Thursday for vaccines for children aged six months to under five years.

The Nova Scotia government says the initial supply of vaccines for children in this age group will be limited, but more appointments will be added once the province receives more doses from the federal government.

Children will need two doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least eight weeks apart.

Health Canada approved the Moderna shot for children earlier this month.

Children with moderate to severe immunodeficiency will need three doses of the vaccine, with at least four weeks between the first and second dose, and eight weeks between the second and third dose.

Children will be considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19 14 days after the last dose.

If a child contracts COVID-19, they should wait eight weeks before getting the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the province.

Other routine childhood vaccines can only be given at least 14 days before or after the COVID-19 vaccine.

The province says there are nearly 34,000 children aged six months to four years in Nova Scotia.

Booster doses are available for some pregnant women as Nova Scotia has opened booster dose bookings for some pregnant women.

The Nova Scotia government says pregnant women who have not received the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy, and who are expected to give birth before November 30, should get an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.

The province said in a press release, "Pregnant people are at increased risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19."

Evidence indicates that receiving the COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy provides immunity to both the pregnant person and the fetus.

Infants of people vaccinated during pregnancy also have lower hospitalization rates in the first six months.

Appointments can be booked online or by calling 1-833-797-7772.