COVID vaccines for children ages 5-11 available at health department.

COVID vaccines for children ages 5-11 available at health department.

HART – District Health Department #10 officials are encouraging everyone eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

The Pfizer vaccine is now authorized for children 5-11 years old, and it’s free. DHD#10 began offering the vaccine for children Monday, Nov. 8, at vaccine clinics and by appointment.

“Please remember that the COVID-19 vaccine is widely available locally, and parents or guardians should go wherever works best for their family,” states a DHD #10 press release.

“We anticipated this approval would happen and are ready to begin administering the COVID-19 to this age group,” said DHD #10 Health Officer Kevin Hughes. “Vaccination continues to be our best tool for protecting individuals from serious illness and limiting the impact of COVID overall. Combining vaccination with non-medical interventions like masks, distance, and isolation or quarantine, provides as much protection as possible.”

Parents can schedule appointments for their children at www.dhd10.org/schedule. COVID-19 vaccines for children are expected to be widely available. Appointments allow for more accurate timing and appropriate spacing during indoor clinics. A parent or guardian must be present for vaccinating minors.

“Vaccination is the best way to protect against COVID-19,” states the DHD #10 press release. “COVID-19 vaccines have been rigorously tested for safety, and medical experts overwhelmingly support vaccination. Though rates of severe illness have been lower in children compared to adults, children can still get infected, become ill, and spread illness to others. Vaccinating children ages 5-11 will help lower community transmission, reduce the burden of quarantine on families, keep kids in schools, and protect everyone from COVID-19.

“Anyone eligible but not yet vaccinated against COVID should do so. Vaccination is safe, effective, free, and available at multiple community locations.”

For questions, call DHD #10 at 231-305-8675 or email covid@dhd10.org.