Should My Child Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Every concerned parent wants to know the same thing right about now, “Is the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine safe for my child?” The answer is yes! We know you only want the best for your child in every stage of their life, especially when it comes to their overall health. That said, we’re here to fill you in on the latest news with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and how it affects your child.

What’s the latest news about COVID-19 vaccines for kids?

The initial Emergency Use Authorization issued by the FDA for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for individuals 16 years of age and older now includes adolescents 12 of age and older. Due to the severity of the COVID-19 disease, the vaccine presents far more benefits than risks and is highly recommended for anyone who qualifies.

What does my pediatrician think about this vaccine for my child?

Nearly every team member of Village Pediatrics is a mother, including both of our pediatricians and nurse practitioner, therefore we personally understand how big of a decision this is to make. Please know that you have our full support to get your child vaccinated for COVID-19 as we view the COVID-19 vaccination to be the best form of protection against COVID-19 at this point in time during this pandemic. 

What side effects are reported with the Pfizer vaccine?

The most common side effects reported with this vaccine are swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site (arm) and nausea, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, fever, or chills throughout the body. 

Temporary side effects are completely normal with the COVID-19 vaccine and they typically subside within a few days. It is a good sign when the body exhibits minor side effects because it indicates that the body is building up protection and that the vaccine is working!

Where can my child get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Currently, the COVID-19 vaccine is not available at Village Pediatrics. Nonetheless, we continue to encourage parents to register their children who qualify wherever possible to obtain the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine is widely available at many pharmacies, as well as local organizations. If you need help finding the COVID-19 vaccine in your area, simply text your zip code to 438829 (getvax) to receive information on vaccines available or click here to sign your child up at a vaccine hub location near you. Please be sure to hold on to your child's vaccination card and bring it to their next appointment, it’s also suggested that you take a picture of their vaccination card in case it ever gets lost.

If you would like to stay in the know of new information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine please visit vhpcovidvaccine.com and click here to view the answers to commonly asked questions from patients.