On November 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially approved Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccination for children ages 5 to 11. This means that all school-aged children are now eligible to be vaccinated against COVD-19. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children be vaccinated, including those who have previously been sick or tested positive for COVID-19.
COVID-19 has had a significant impact on children’s health. The AAP states that nearly 6.3 million children have been infected with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, and that more than 22,400 have been hospitalized as a result. Sadly, at least 605 children under the age of 18 have died from COVID-19.
Widespread vaccination for COVID-19 is a critical tool to best protect everyone, especially those at highest risk, from severe illness and death. People who are fully vaccinated can safely resume many activities that they did prior to the pandemic.
Finding a COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5 Years and Older:
The Federal Government is providing the COVID-19 vaccine free of charge to all people living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.
- Check with your child’s healthcare provider about whether they offer COVID-19 vaccination.
- Search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you.
- Check your local pharmacy’s website to see if vaccination walk-ins or appointments are available for children.
- Contact your state, territorial, local, or tribal health department for more information.
For more information about vaccines and about COVID-19 in children, you can visit the CDC website on vaccines for children and teens or the AAP vaccine information website.