COVID-19 vaccines for children ages six months through five years have been authorized by federal and state agencies.
The Pfizer vaccination for ages six months through four years is a three-dose series — the first two shots are three weeks apart, the third shot given at least eight weeks later. The Moderna vaccine for ages six months through five years is a two-dose series, four weeks apart.
Both of the vaccine options for this age group are a lower dose than what is given to older kids and adults. The data suggests that the side effects in younger kids are milder than those in older kids.
Parents should contact their child’s pediatrician to make an appointment for COVID-19 vaccination, as well as, to answer any questions or concerns.
Although the coronavirus seems to be less risky for children, the infection is still one of the top 10 causes of death for this age group in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children get the COVID-19 vaccine even if they’ve had the virus recently. It’s also good to know that children are able to get the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines on the same day.
Samaritan’s initial allocation for these vaccines will be limited during the first few weeks. Vaccines for this age group will not be available at SamCare Express or Samaritan Pharmacy locations.
Samaritan is working diligently to help vaccinate this population as quickly as possible.
To see the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine, visit samhealth.org/GetTheVaccine.