The COVID-19 Vaccine Approved for Children Ages 5 to 11
The FDA granted emergency use authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5 to 11. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the vaccine is safe for use in children over five. Also, studies show the COVID-19 vaccine effectively protects children from getting and spreading the virus.
Emergent Testing currently offers COVID-19 vaccines for patients over the age of twelve at our vaccine clinic locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Children Receive the Same Vaccine Dose as Adults?
Children ages 5 to 11 will receive a lower dose than people ages 12 and up. The dose for children is ten micrograms versus 30 micrograms in patients over age 12.
The vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 comes in a vial with an orange cap and label to distinguish them from the adult doses, which use purple caps and labels.
What Vaccine Brands have Approval for Use in Children?
Only the Pfizer vaccine has emergency approval for use in children and teenagers ages 5 to 17.
What Are the Common Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccine in Children?
Studies found that for children, the side effects are consistent with the side effects experienced by adults after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. The common side effects include a sore arm near the injection site, tiredness, headache, achiness, fevers, and chills. Side effects typically last no longer than 48 hours.
Can My Child Get the COVID-19 Vaccine and Other Vaccines at the Same Appointment?
Yes! Currently, there are no restrictions on getting other vaccines during an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine. For example, children could get the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine during the same appointment.
Where Can My Child Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine?
You may visit one of the Emergent Testing vaccine centers for your child to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Does the COVID-19 Vaccine Cause Heart Problems in Children?
According to the CDC, reports of myocarditis and pericarditis in children and young adults occurred in rare cases after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. The occurrence of the condition was higher after the second dose. Yet, the CDC also noted that cases were rare, and the vaccine’s benefits outweigh the risks. Plus, the COVID-19 virus can also cause myocarditis.
Can My Child Catch COVID-19 from the Vaccine?
No! According to the CDC, children cannot get COVID-19 from the vaccine.
Visit Emergent Testing for the COVID-19 Vaccine
The COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine is now available at Emergent Testing vaccine locations for children ages 5 to 11. Contact us with questions or for additional information.