Updated COVID-19 Vaccine: Is It Right for My Child?

While the COVID-19 pandemic is officially over, COVID-19 infections remain among us, and there will likely be yearly spikes, just like the flu. Should you run out and get your child the latest COVID-19 vaccine that recently became available? The short answer is yes. While we know that children tend to get more mild symptoms from COVID-19 infection than adults, serious illnesses and hospitalizations can still occur.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an updated mRNA vaccine.

The CDC recommends that everyone 5 years and older receive one dose of an updated mRNA vaccine. The updated dose should be given at least 2 months after any previous COVID-19 vaccine.

Kids 6 months through 4 years should complete a multidose initial series (either two doses of the Moderna vaccine or three doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine) PLUS one dose of the updated vaccine.

The newest COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same as other age-appropriate vaccines, including the yearly flu vaccine.

6 facts about COVID-19 vaccination according to the CDC

• COVID-19 vaccination for children is safe
• Getting vaccinated helps protect children against COVID-19
• Children may have some side effects after COVID-19 vaccination
• Children receive a smaller dose of COVID-19 vaccination than teens and adults
• Children who have already had COVID-19 should still get vaccinated
• Children can safely receive other vaccinations the same day that they receive their COVID-19 vaccine

KidMed recommends that all children receive age-appropriate vaccinations as recommended by the CDC. Suppose you have any concerns about getting your child vaccinated. In that case, we encourage you to discuss vaccinations with your pediatrician and make an informed decision together.