Important Facts for Parents
Currently, children are being infected with Covid-19 at basically the same rate as adults
As of October 14, 2021, nearly 6.2 million children tested positive for COVID-19. More than 1.1 million of those cases were added in the last six weeks. At this time, it appears that severe illness due to COVID-19 is uncommon among children. However, the longer-term impacts of the pandemic on children, including ways the virus may harm the long-term physical health of infected children, as well as its emotional and mental health effects are still unclear.
Even children who have already had COVID-19 should be vaccinated, if they are eligible.
Experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from Covid-19. Even if you have already recovered, it is possible—although rare—that you could be infected with the virus that causes Covid-19 again. Getting vaccinated is a safer way to build protection than getting infected.
The side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine are minor
In fact, many people have no side effects at all. The most common symptoms are soreness at the vaccine site, headache and fatigue, which typically last for 1-2 days. These symptoms can be considered a good thing as it’s a sign that the vaccine is working!
COVID-19 vaccines do not cause infertility
Despite reports suggesting fertility concerns, there is no data to support this. The immune system and the reproductive system are completely separate. This is a hoax.
Based on the latest evidence, myocarditis is an extremely rare side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine
You may have heard news about a small number of adolescents and young adults who experienced mild cases of heart inflammation (called myocarditis) after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Most recovered on their own or with minimal treatment and rest. The risk of myocarditis pales in comparison to the potential risks of COVID-19 infection. In fact, your risk of getting myocarditis is much greater if you get a natural COVID infection.
Your child can also receive routine shots at the same appointment for the COVID-19 shot
It is important that children who missed routine vaccinations during the pandemic get caught up. It is safe to receive these vaccinations, including the annual flu shot, along with the COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 Vaccine Safety
Before a vaccine gets approved, a rigorous study is done to assess safety. Once the vaccine is approved, safety continues to be monitored.
How do I know the vaccine is safe for my child?
As of October 14, 2021, nearly 6.2 million children tested positive for COVID-19. More than 1.1 million of those cases were added in the last six weeks. At this time, it appears that severe illness due to COVID-19 is uncommon among children. However, the longer-term impacts of the pandemic on children, including ways the virus may harm the long-term physical health of infected children, as well as its emotional and mental health effects are still unclear.
THE COVID-19 VACCINE HAS BEEN THOROUGHLY TESTED ON CHILDREN
Concerns about the vaccine being developed too quickly are not warranted. The technology utilized in the COVID vaccines has been studied for almost 20 years. The COVID-19 vaccine has been extremely effective and extensively tested to show it is safe for use in children.
Children account for about 25% of the U.S. population. Getting them vaccinated
will be critical for protecting our communities and ultimately ending this pandemic.
Where can my eligible child get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Visit https://www.vaccines.gov to find a location near you!
Vaccines for children ages 5-11 will be administered at pediatric or primary care offices, children’s hospitals and pharmacies across the state. NO MATTER WHERE YOU GET IT, IT’S CRITICAL THAT ALL ELIGIBLE PATIENTS GET THE VACCINE.
If you would like more information
for more info on the Covid-19 vaccines, visit:
www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines
