COVID-19 Vaccine for Age 5-11 Coming Soon to NH Seacoast
The CDC gave its approval for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 pediatric vaccine available as soon as possible but when it will be available on the Seacoast is in question.
28 million children age 5-11 will be eligible to receive the shot which is just a third of the dosage given to adults and teens.
"As a mom, I encourage parents with questions to talk to their pediatrician, school nurse or local pharmacist to learn more about the vaccine and the importance of getting their children vaccinated," CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky said in a statement.
The vaccine will be available at pediatric healthcare provider offices, pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and more as soon as Wednesday with a full ramp-up on Monday.
Gov. Chris Sununu during a COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday said there will be plenty of vaccine supply for children and urged parents to get their children vaccinated although he will not mandate it.
"We will have a lot of availability for parents if they so choose to make that choice for their kids," Sununu said.
State Health Commissioner Lori Shibinette said the Executive Council will vote on several contracts that will fund school based and community based clinics. She is working to find alternative funding to make up the $27 million in federal money the council rejected.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills welcomed the CDC's decision and also said parents should speak with their doctor about getting their children vaccinated against COVID-19.
"We’re putting into action our plan with health care providers, pharmacies, schools, and other partners to make the vaccine available to this age group as soon as this week and over the coming days and weeks," Maine DHHS Commissioner Jeanne Lambrew said in a statement.
Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com or via Twitter @DanAlexanderNH