Pfizer Claims Its Vaccine Is Safe and Effective for Children Aged 5 to 12

couple holding tiny baby shoesartificial insemination syringe

Pfizer has announced that a recent study indicates a low dose of its COVID-19 vaccine is both safe and effective for children as young as 5 years old. However, the FDA will need to thoroughly review this data before any approval can be granted. This marks a significant advancement towards providing a COVID-19 vaccination option for younger children.

According to the announcement, the dosage for the two-shot vaccine given to kids is approximately one-third of what is administered to adolescents and adults. This information is particularly encouraging for parents, pediatricians, and children, especially as COVID-19 outbreaks continue to disrupt educational settings for those returning to school.

The next step involves Pfizer submitting its study findings to the FDA, which will evaluate whether the vaccine meets the safety and efficacy standards necessary for children. Although Pfizer is expected to submit this data by the end of the month, the FDA’s review process could extend over several weeks or even months. Nevertheless, there is optimism that a vaccine for younger children could be available by Halloween.

Currently, Pfizer’s vaccine is the only one authorized in the U.S. for children aged 12 and older. Despite this, numerous parents have been seeking vaccinations for their younger children, especially given the rise in pediatric COVID-19 cases linked to the delta variant. While this new data may persuade more parents to consider vaccination for their younger ones, experts caution against prematurely seeking the vaccine. The dosage tested for younger children was significantly lower than what is available for older age groups.

“No one should really be freelancing—they should wait for the appropriate approval and recommendations before making decisions regarding their children’s health,” said Dr. Lisa Green, Pfizer’s senior vice president of vaccine clinical research and development. “Our bodies, especially in youth, are naturally equipped to handle various challenges, and vaccines can enhance that natural process.”

Even if a vaccine for children becomes available, its uptake may be limited. Children are generally less likely to experience severe cases of COVID-19 compared to adults. The American Academy of Pediatrics has reported that, among 12- to 18-year-olds eligible for vaccination since May, only about 50 percent have received their shots thus far.

Further Reading

For more insights, you can read about home insemination options here, and explore expert advice from Make a Mom on related topics. Additionally, check out March of Dimes for excellent pregnancy and home insemination resources.

Search Queries:

Summary

Pfizer has reported that its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for children aged 5 to 12, pending FDA review. The vaccine dose for younger children is lower than that for adults. While this news has generated hope among parents and pediatricians, experts urge caution and emphasize waiting for official approval before seeking vaccinations for younger kids.

Keyphrase

COVID-19 vaccine for children

Tags

home insemination kit, home insemination syringe, self insemination

modernfamilyblog.com