The FDA and CDC have authorized Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine for use in children ages 5 through 11 based on strong safety and effectiveness data.
The vaccine's safety was studied in roughly 3,100 children who received the vaccine and no serious side effects have been noted.
The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was also found to be 90.7% effective in preventing Covid-19 infections in this age group. The immune responses were in line with what has been shown in people ages 16 through 25.
Vaccinations for children ages 5 through 11 will be a two-shot series administered three weeks apart. The dose (10 micrograms) is one-third of that given to people ages 12 and older (30 micrograms).
To find a Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine near you, you can search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233. You can also schedule an appointment with your child’s physician or healthcare provider.
Alternatively, you can visit your local pharmacy's website to see if vaccination walk-ins or appointments are available.
For more information, contact your doctor or state or local health department.