Everyone 6 Months and Older are Now Eligible for a COVID-19 Vaccination
Canton, NY— As of June 18, 2022 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a COVID-19 primary series for everyone 6 months and older. This age group becomes the last age group eligible for vaccination against COVID-19.
COVID-19 has become one of the top 10 causes of pediatric death, and tens of thousands of children and teens have been hospitalized because of the virus. While children and adolescents are typically at lower risk than adults of becoming seriously ill, the effects of the virus are unpredictable. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said the two vaccines made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are safe and effective for children 6 months and older. Vaccination is the best way to protect children from COVID-19.
Pfizer-BioNTech |
Moderna |
Children ages 6 months to 4 years old |
Children ages 6 months to 5 years old |
3 dose series |
2 dose series |
Children would receive 2 doses three weeks apart and a third dose at least 2 months later. |
Children would receive two doses 4 weeks apart. |
While the dosages differ between companies, both will give the youngest children lower doses than those used for adults and older kids. Both vaccines are safe and do not cause more adverse effects among children than among adults. Common side effects after vaccination are mild and similar to those seen in adults and adolescents; fever, swelling at the site of injection.
Where to receive vaccination
Physicians will play a big role in the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in this age group. Healthcare professionals strongly recommend this age group get vaccinated by their pediatrician. To make an appointment, call your pediatrician’s office. Pharmacies will also provide vaccinations to the younger pediatric populations but can only administer vaccinations to children ages 3 years and older. St. Lawrence County Public Health will be providing vaccinations to children 6 months and older.
St. Lawrence County Public Health will begin holding COVID-19 vaccination clinics for all eligible individuals ages 6 months and older on Thursday June 30th 8:30am-3:30pm. Vaccination for this population will be available throughout July at Public Health every Thursday. To make an appointment, visit the St. Lawrence County Public Health Department’s website or call 315-386-2325.
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