Children under 11 years old are vaccinated in Colorado

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT AT A HEALTH CENTER

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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Minors, between the ages of 5 and 11, can already be immunized against COVID-19. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has extended its Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer vaccine to children 5 years of age and older. In addition, the CDC approved the use of the Pfizer vaccine in this childhood age group. Children ages 5 to 11 will receive a lower dose of the Pfizer vaccine that represents one-third of the dose used for adolescents and adults.

Clinical trials show that children ages 5 to 17 can safely be vaccinated against COVID-19. Millions of children ages 12 to 17 have already been safely vaccinated against COVID-19, and more than 2,000 children ages 5 to 11 were safely vaccinated in a clinical trial. Side effects in children are like those experienced by adults, including fatigue, headache, pain, chills, and fever.

In clinical trials, children ages 5 to 11 generally had milder side effects than teens and adults. Most of these effects are mild and go away on their own within a day or two. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) encourages parents and guardians to plan for the COVID-19 vaccination of their children between the ages of 5 and 11. “Parents and guardians should choose the vaccination center or health care provider for their children,” said the CDPHE.

Explaining the kids what to expect

Health authorities also recommend talking to children about the vaccine, so they know what to expect. “Very important, after children have received the first dose of the vaccine, parents and guardians should make sure to schedule the appointment for the second dose three weeks later,” the CDPHE statement states. The vaccine is free. You do not need to present your (or your child’s) ID or health insurance to get vaccinated.

Please note that each appointment is for one child only. Unless they have an appointment, minors will not be able to enter the vaccination center of your choice. Do not leave children or pets unsupervised in or around the car. Make arrangements for your minor children to be in childcare while you bring your immunized child to your appointment,” concludes CDPHE.

Alarm situation

This fall the rate of COVID-19 cases among school-age children has been consistently higher than among adults. Also, some children have become so seriously ill that they need to be hospitalized. “Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 can help your child stay healthy, go to school and protect his family and community,” say CDPHE authorities.