Why It's Important to Vaccinate Children

While COVID-19 generally hasn’t been as severe in children, it’s critical that this group gets vaccinated.

Getting as many people vaccinated as possible as soon as possible is the most effective path to help get the COVID-19 pandemic fully under control. We’re currently seeing a rise in a more transmissible variant (the Delta variant), and the best way to protect yourself and your community is to get vaccinated; including getting your children who are 12 years old or older vaccinated. 

Low risk does not equal no risk

While children may be at low risk for contracting a severe case of COVID-19, there are still risks. There have been some reported severe cases of COVID-19 in children & young adults, and we still don’t know the long-term effects of COVID-19 infection.” Additionally, according to the CDC, the number of hospitalizations related to Covid-19 among adolescents in the United States was about three times as high as hospitalizations linked to influenza over three recent flu seasons. While the numbers aren’t high in comparison to adult cases, with the vaccination now available, most severe cases or deaths from COVID-19 can be avoided. 

Low risk children and high risk others

Even though children are more likely to only experience a mild case of COVID-19, being unvaccinated means they can still contract and spread COVID-19 to others who may be more susceptible. Children and young adults interacting with family, particularly grandparents or elderly individuals, may be putting others at risk of more severe COVID-19. Additionally, as COVID-19 continues to spread and mutate, variants like the Delta variant can spread more quickly in unvaccinated people and additional transmissions lead to a greater risk of mutation. 

Lower their risk, and others

The FDA authorized Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is working in children 12-17. Full vaccination means kids can get back to their friends and activities and helps protect us all. Not to mention the relief of not having to wear a mask in most circumstances. 

So don’t wait any longer. Help get your children vaccinated, protect your community and safely enjoy the summer ahead. 

To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit our COVID-19 vaccine page.