Why experts recommend kids get vaccinated against COVID-19
Why is COVID-19 vaccination so important for kids ages 5 and up?
Dr. Kari Kendall, a pediatrician with Open Door Health Services in Muncie, shares the “why” in her own words, as communities continue to navigate the pandemic together:
The ability to vaccinate our kids ages 5 and older against COVID-19 is a big step in the right direction for the health of our children. As a pediatrician, here is why I and our other Open Door providers recommend all eligible pediatric patients receive this vaccine.
➡️ COVID-19 DOES impact the health and wellbeing of children. Though children have a relatively low risk of severe disease with Covid, more than 900 children have died in the U.S. from Covid. Many times more have become seriously ill requiring hospitalization.
➡️ We know the Pfizer vaccine (the brand currently available for kids) is effective at preventing severe Covid cases in children.
➡️ Vaccinating children helps keep them in school and in other activities that are important for their mental and educational well-being.
➡️ Vaccination at all eligible ages may help slow spread of Covid, which helps protect immunocompromised people and those who cannot receive the vaccine at this time (think siblings or other children under 5 years of age, grandparents, immunocompromised family members or teachers).
➡️ We know the vaccine is safe and well-tolerated in children. The risk of significant complication from infection with Covid, even in children, is likely greater than any potential risk of the vaccine.
We encourage you to speak with your child’s primary care provider about getting them protected from Covid. While leading children’s health advocates such as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend vaccination for all children ages 5+ who do not have a contraindication, we know local providers are often the most trusted voices in helping parents understand the value of Covid vaccination for kids. The Open Door Pediatrics team is happy to discuss your particular questions or concerns in detail at any time at (765) 286-7000.
