WARRENSBURG, Mo. (Nov. 4, 2021) – The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for emergency use by both the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for ages 5 to 11. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) adopted the CDC’s recommendations. Based on the state’s amended standing order, Johnson County Community Health Services (JCCHS) will administer the vaccine to children ages 5 to 11.
Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 10, JCCHS will offer the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to anyone age 5 and older during the agency’s Walk-in Wednesday COVID Vaccine Clinic. The walk-in clinics are every Wednesday, from 1:00 to 4:30 PM but could change with the upcoming holidays. Vaccines will be offered while supplies last. No appointment is necessary.
Previously, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was authorized for use in individuals 12 and older. The vaccine for children age 5-11 is a smaller dose, which is a third of the dosage for individuals 12 years and older. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is administered as a series of two doses, 3 weeks apart, for all eligible individuals.
In clinical trials, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was found to be more than 90 percent effective in preventing COVID-19 in children ages 5-11. Vaccine side effects were mild and similar to those seen in adults and with other vaccines recommended for children. These are normal signs that their body is building protection, but they should go away in a few days. The most common side effect was a sore arm.
Whether your child or teen gets vaccinated is up to your family. Please speak with your child’s doctor if you have any concerns about the vaccine. They can help you balance the possible risks and side effects of vaccination with the risks of getting and spreading COVID-19.
JCCHS continues to follow guidance from the CDC and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit MOStopsCovid.com. To view some frequently asked questions and answers about the COVID-19 vaccine for children, visit https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/facts/#parent-kids.
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