COVID Vaccine For Kids

Mia Vaughn, Reporter|November 20, 2021

courtesy of J. Elmshaeuser

Six-year-old Oliver Elmshaeuser proudly wears his “I got my COVID vaccine” sticker after receiving his first COVID shot last week in Arlington, Virginia.

The FDA has approved the Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5-12. As the risk of contracting COVID-19 is so high, and the symptoms can cause severe issues, the vaccine has now been extended to not only adults but kids as well.

“Personally, I think that it is a great idea to get the COVID-19 vaccine because it gives me and my family a better chance at being protected and safe, especially during a time where getting coughed on has the potential to turn your world upside down and backward,” sophomore Katie Cherry said. She has 4 younger siblings and her parents are eager to get them vaccinated.

Although there have been concerns about the safety of the vaccine, extensive trials have proven that getting vaccinated is safe for those it is approved for. The CDC highly recommends that everyone gets the vaccine.

“I used to be worried that the COVID-19 vaccine could be dangerous because it was untested or new,” Cherry said, “but now, there is so much evidence and proof to back up how important it is.”

Hospitals across the US have started mandating the vaccine to enter their buildings or work on their staff. Around 200 hospitals already require the vaccine, with more joining them. A list of these hospitals can be found here. As of November 19th, vaccines will also be required for indoor events hosting over 500 people. The executive order from Gov. Polis can be found here. 

There has also been a push to require the COVID-19 vaccine in schools. Currently, only one school district, in Culver City, California, requires the vaccine for students, but more are expected to follow. The president is also urging student-athletes to get vaccinated.

As more places are requiring the vaccine, some parents have been wanting to get their kids vaccinated.

“I was nervous because of the pain, but I was excited because I could do more activities,” Alice Margolin, a 5th grader, said.  

Overall, many families want to do what they can to protect themselves and others. Giving their kids the COVID-19 vaccine is a successful way to do this. According to the Mayo Clinic, the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is 91% effective in preventing COVID-19. Preventing the spread of COVID-19 ensures a faster return to normalcy.

“Getting the vaccine is certainly a lot better than going into battle unarmed in my book,” Cherry said.