On Tuesday, November 2, the FDA and CDC reviewed and authorized an expansion of its emergency use authorization for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine produced by Pfizer-BioNTech for children ages 5 to 11 years old.
Just like everyone else, children can get infected with COVID-19. Since some infected children experience long-term side effects of COVID-19, and can infect vulnerable adults, Avance Care is pleased to offer the COVID-19 vaccine to help children be safe in the classroom, play sports, attend events, be with friends and family, and support their mental health.
Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
Is the vaccine safe for children ages 5 to 11 years old?
The COVID-19 vaccines are subject to the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history. The Pfizer vaccine is safe and provides a robust immune response for children 5 to 11 years of age. If you have questions about the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, you should talk to your child’s healthcare professional to have your questions answered.
Should all children ages 5 to 11 years old receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes. The benefits of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11 years outweigh any potential risks.
Are children ages 5 to 11 years old required to get two doses of the vaccine?
Yes. Children ages 5 to 11 years old will receive two doses of the Pfizer vaccine 3 weeks apart. Children are given a lower dose of the vaccine— 10 micrograms, compared with 30 micrograms in people ages 12 and older.
What are the most common side effects for children ages 5 to 11 years old?
The most common side effects in young kids include a sore arm, headache, feeling tired, muscle aches, and chills. They are very similar to what researchers have seen in studies of teens and adults who get the Pfizer vaccine. Side effects were more often reported after the second dose than the first.
Very rare side effects of the Pfizer vaccine include anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) and myocarditis (transient inflammation of the heart). The risk of these rare side effects is greatly outweighed by the benefits of the vaccine.
Can my child receive the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine at the same time?
Yes. The COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines.
Can my child get COVID-19 from the vaccine?
No. Your child cannot get COVID-19 from any COVID-19 vaccine including Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.
To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine for your children, you can book an appointment through our online scheduling tool or by calling one of our convenient locations.
If you have been delaying your well-child visit, you can schedule your vaccine appointment during this visit. Regular well-child visits can help prevent illness and keep you informed about your child’s development.
During your well-child appointment, your provider will complete a physical exam, order recommended screenings, discuss immunizations, check your child’s growth and development, and will provide you the opportunity to ask questions.