Is there a COVID-19 vaccine for children?
Before recommending COVID-19 vaccination for children, scientists conducted clinical trials. The FDA gave the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine emergency authorization to use in children ages 5 years through 15 years old and full approval to use in people ages 16 years and older.
Can children get the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine?
Right now, children and adolescents 5 to under 18 in the U.S. can only receive the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine from Pfizer BioNTech. People 18 years and up can get either COVID-19 mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer BioNTech) or the viral vector vaccine (Johnson & Johnson).
Is the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children one or two doses?
The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for children 5 through 11 years of age is administered as a two-dose primary series, 3 weeks apart, but is a lower dose (10 micrograms) than that used for individuals 12 years of age and older (30 micrograms).
Is there a COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 to 11?
The federal government is committed to ensuring that children ages 5 through 11 years old have access to COVID-19 vaccines. Scientists have conducted clinical trials with about 3,000 children, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine has met the safety and efficacy standards for authorization in children ages 5 through 11 years old. The safety of COVID-19 vaccines continues to be monitored.
What are the most common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine in children?
In clinical trials, vaccine side effects were mild and similar to those seen in adults and with other vaccines recommended for children. The most common side effect was a sore arm. These side effects may affect your child’s ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.
How many shots does the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine need?
If you receive a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, you will need 2 initial shots to complete the primary series.