Covid Shots for Younger Kids Now Available for Order by State Officials
When Will the Vaccine Be Available?
States were able to begin ordering vaccinations for kids aged 5 to 11 years on Wednesday, October 20th. Despite this, the vaccine has not yet been authorized. Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, is allowing immunization program managers to order doses ahead of time. Once the CDC and FDA sign off on approvals, the vials will be shipped and states can begin offering the vaccines.
This advanced ordering is in place to aid in a smooth rollout when official approval comes. Within the next three weeks, health officials and federal officials will be discussing the smaller-dose vaccines ahead of authorization.
The CDC has released a seven-page guide offering up information on how to expand existing vaccination programs to incorporate the new demographic. It states that children under age 12 must only receive doses prepared for their age group, though any pharmacy in any state can administer it.
However, it does not note whether clinics in schools will administer vaccines or whether vaccination should be a requirement for school attendance. These issues are left for cities and states to determine on an individual basis. While vaccination at school clinics may be logistically ideal, many parents could be uncomfortable with the option.
Is a Vaccine for 5 to 11-Year-Olds Necessary?
It’s widely known that Covid-19 has a much greater impact on adults than children. Over 720,000 people have died from the virus in the U.S., with over 540 of them being children. However, some kids are at a higher risk for severe illness and could greatly benefit from the vaccine. With more vaccinated children, we can reduce the spread and protect the health of vulnerable children and adults alike.
The vaccine itself is a third as potent as the original, which is authorized for people 12 years old and up. As we settle into the school year and move into the holiday season, which is marked by travel to see friends and family, a vaccination for this age group could mean a return to normal.
The presidential administration notes that while the push for this vaccination has been great, it’s important for overall health that we take the time to get the vaccination and rollout done properly. As President Biden’s coronavirus response coordinator, Jeffrey D. Zients, noted in a press briefing, “Kids have different needs than adults, and our operational planning is geared to meet those specific needs, including by offering vaccinations in settings that parents and kids are familiar with and trust. So we are going to be ready, pending the F.D.A. and C.D.C. decision that will be based on science.”
Resources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/20/us/politics/kids-covid-vaccination.html
About Us
Here at HealthNeed Medical Urgent Care, our main goal is to provide an easy and friendly walk-in experience that will have you face to face with one of our many medical specialists within minutes of checking in and without an appointment. Our team of medical experts offers treatments anywhere from bandaging small scrapes and cuts to IVs. Come check out our offices that are open 365 days a year. We provide pediatric as well as senior medical care, with most health insurances accepted.
Queens Crossing
38–21 Main St, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354
Wheelchair Accessible Entrance:
136–17 39th Ave, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354
Phone: (718) 888–1808
Terms of Use and Disclaimer — The information contained in this document has been culled from online resources and government agencies and is for general informational purposes only. The information is provided in good faith to support the community and our friends impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. Your use of this document and your reliance on the information contained herein is solely at your own risk. All liability with respect to any reader, user or browser’s reliance on this document and/or actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this document is hereby expressly disclaimed.
