COVID boosters now available for ages 5-11
Just in time for summer activities, Pfizer booster shots are now available for children ages 5 to 11. They can receive the booster five months after their last COVID injection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has approved the vaccines already authorized by the Federal Drug Administration. This approval means that all Americans over the age of 5 years are able to be boosted.
With overall COVID cases on the rise, pediatricians recommend the booster, for those eligible, to protect younger siblings who cannot yet vaccinated and children with special needs or immunodeficiencies. Both groups are at higher risk for hospitalization.
Dr. Kevin Dahlman, medical director, Aurora Children’s Health, continues to encourage all parents to get their children immunized.
“The biggest benefit of being fully vaccinated, with the primary series, followed by a booster dose is to minimize family disruptions this summer,” says Dr. Dahlman. “While those kids who are fully vaccinated can still get COVID infection, these vaccines minimize the severity of symptoms and need for quarantine.”
Now is the perfect time to make an appointment with a primary care physician. Whether you live in Illinois or Wisconsin, it’s easy to find a doctor near you.
Related Posts
Comments
About the Author
Evonne Woloshyn, health enews contributor, is director of public affairs at Advocate Children's Hospital. Evonne began her career as an anchor and reporter in broadcast news. Over the past 20 years, she has worked in health care marketing in both Ohio and Illinois. Evonne loves to travel, spend time with family and is an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan!
