COVID-19 Vaccines Finally Here for Our Little Ones
All children 6 months and older can now be vaccinated against COVID-19. Many parents have been waiting for this moment. And now, not one, but two vaccines are available for children 6 months to 5 years. Some parents are eager to have their children vaccinated, but many still have questions.
What COVID-19 vaccines are available for my child?
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have approved two COVID-19 vaccines for children 6 months to 5 years – the Pfizer BioNTech mRNA vaccine and the Moderna mRNA vaccine. Each is a lower dose of the original vaccine given now to millions of people and children around the world. Both vaccines are extremely effective at protecting against severe disease, hospitalization, and death caused by COVID-19.
What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines?
Possible side effects are similar to those of other vaccines. Your child might have arm soreness at the injection site, fussiness, or fever – all signs that the body’s immune system is working to develop protection. There have been no cases of heart inflammation or myocarditis that has been seen infrequently in older children and young adults.
Can my child get their other shots along with the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes. It’s completely safe to receive the COVID-19 vaccines at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. The immune system is very good at multitasking, meaning it can easily form protection to multiple illnesses at once.
Why should my child get the COVID-19 vaccine, since COVID-19 is usually mild in children?
Luckily, COVID-19 is typically milder in children than adults, but this isn’t always the case. Over 440 children 4 and under have died from COVID-19, and the illness causes more hospitalizations in this younger age group than older children. Both vaccines are effective ways to protect your child from severe COVID-19.
What if my child just had COVID-19?
It’s safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine any time after a child is no longer contagious from the illness. It’s true that natural immunity exists after an infection, though this wanes with time. You can wait up to 90 days after a recent infection to start the vaccine series, but it’s also acceptable to get it as soon as your child is done with their isolation period.
Where can I get the COVID-19 vaccine for my child?
Vaccines for the youngest children will be available at Kaiser Permanente medical centers and local retail pharmacies, the same as for older age groups. Also, most pediatric clinics and offices will be offering the vaccines, so you can discuss options with your pediatrician or family medicine doctor and receive the vaccine in a setting you’re most comfortable with. If you’re a member, schedule a vaccine appointment on Doctor Online.
Resources for Parents
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Featured Author
Dr. Makram's bio reads: As a pediatrician at Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento, I have the privilege and honor of caring for your children as they grow into adulthood. In fact, that is one of the reasons I entered the field of pediatrics - the opportunity to help my patients thrive as they mature. I also love pediatrics because of the wonderful opportunities to interact with people of all ages - infants, children, teens and parents. Dr. Makram's full bio can be found on My Doctor Online. Disclaimer: If you have an emergency medical condition, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. An emergency medical condition is any of the following: (1) a medical condition that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe pain) such that you could reasonably expect the absence of immediate medical attention to result in serious jeopardy to your health or body functions or organs; (2) active labor when there isn't enough time for safe transfer to a Plan hospital (or designated hospital) before delivery, or if transfer poses a threat to your (or your unborn child's) health and safety, or (3) a mental disorder that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity such that either you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, or you are not immediately able to provide for, or use, food, shelter, or clothing, due to the mental disorder. This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. Kaiser Permanente does not endorse the medications or products mentioned. Any trade names listed are for easy identification only.