Children are just as likely to get COVID-19 as adults! It is true that children are less likely to have symptoms and if children have symptoms they are usually mild. But children with COVID-19 can still get very sick, need to go to the hospital, and even die.
0.5 Children
Has the COVID-vaccine been approved for kids ages 5-11?
Yes. The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has been approved for all children age 5 and older. The vaccine is free for everyone, both kids and adults. You don’t need to show proof of insurance or immigration to receive it.
Is the vaccine safe for children?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines are safe for children and teens. CDC recommends everyone ages 5 years and older get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible to help protect against COVID-19. The benefits of COVID-19 vaccination outweigh the known and potential risks. For more...
My child will be 12 in a month or so. Should I vaccinate him/her now or wait until he can get the full dose?
You should vaccinate your child as soon as possible, even if that means they will get the smaller dose. When your child returns for their 2nd dose, at age 12, they will get the higher dose.
How likely is myocarditis in vaccinated children ages 5-11 years old?
In the clinical trials (the research), zero out of 3,082 children from 5-11 years old developed myocarditis due to COVID-19 vaccination. Still, we believe there is a very small risk of a child developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination.
Where can my child get the COVID vaccine?
Many pediatricians are ordering the COVID-19 vaccine to have it ready for their patients. If your pediatrician does not have it, you can find the Cook County Health site closest to you here: myshotcookcounty.com.
Where can my younger child get the COVID vaccine?
All Cook County Health sites will be offering the vaccine. To find hours and a site closest to you, visit myshotcookcounty.com. You can make an appointment or walk in. The COVID-19 vaccine will also be offered in most physician offices. Parents are encouraged to reach...
When will kids younger than 5 years old be able to get the vaccine?
Clinical trials (the research) are happening right now to make sure the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for kids as young as 6 months old. We cannot say for sure but it looks like the vaccine will be ready for children under 5 sometime in the beginning of 2022.
What are the side effects of the COVID vaccine for kids?
The possible side effects of the vaccine for children are the same as for adults: things like fever, chills, or a sore arm. Young children usually have less side effects from the vaccine than adults do.
How is the vaccine dosage different for kids vs. adults?
Kids from 5-11 years old get a dose that is one third (1/3) the amount adults get. The needle is also smaller. Kids need two shots, 21 days apart, just like adults who get the Pfizer vaccine.