Recently the FDA approved for the Pfizer COVID-19 pediatric vaccine for emergency use on kids, age 5 to 11 years old. Parents are making the decision about whether or not to vaccinate their younger children. Many will relate to being more cautious about vaccinating their children than their personal decision to vaccinate themselves.
As parents, we are all weighing the pros and cons of vaccinating our younger children against COVID-19.
Des Moines Mom spoke with Dr. Sarah Holland, pediatric healthcare expert with The Iowa Clinic, on the medical benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 and up.
Why should parents consider the COVID-19 vaccine for their kids?
Pediatricians have found the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination to be a very safe and effective way to protect children ages 5 to 11 years old against COVID-19. Pediatricians are not just talking the talk, they’re walking the walk and vaccinating their own younger children with the newly approved vaccine. They believe this vaccination is an important step in moving forward with this pandemic.
Does the vaccine have any side effects? What should parents be prepared for?
The most common side effects continue to be mild and typically last no longer than a day:
- Pain or redness at the site of injection
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Achy joints or muscles
- Low-grade fever
How long does it take for the vaccine to take effect?
The Pfizer COVID-19 pediatric vaccination is given in two-10 microgram injects, 21 days apart. Two weeks after their second vaccination, children are considered to be fully vaccinated. Research shows that this vaccine is about 90% effective at that point.
Watch the full Facebook Live interview with Dr. Sarah Holland to learn more about the COVID-19 pediatric vaccination and help you make an informed decision about getting your young children vaccinated
Read one mother’s choice to have her children vaccinated against COVID-19.
For The Iowa Clinic’s latest information on COVID-19 and to schedule your child’s vaccine, visit https://www.iowaclinic.com/coronavirus/vaccine/
About Dr. Sarah Holland
Sarah Holland, DO, joined The Iowa Clinic in 2017 after working in the Pediatric Emergency Department at Blank Children’s Hospital for seven years. She enjoys talking with kids, incorporating play into her exams, helping new parents get settled into parenthood, and being involved in each child’s growth and development.
Outside of the clinic, Dr. Holland loves spending time with her husband and two boys, running outdoors, reading, and spending time with other family and friends.
Connect with The Iowa Clinic
Facebook: www.facebook.com/IowaClinic
Twitter: twitter.com/theiowaclinic
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/TheIowaClinic