On June 21, the Missouri Department of Health and Human Services approved the distribution of both the Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children as young as 6 months old. This approval was the final step in the regulation process following approval from The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). With this approval, nearly 20 million children in the U.S. can now be better protected against COVID-19.

The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is a 2-shot series given 4 weeks apart for children between the ages of 6 months and 5-years. The Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is a three-shot series for children between 6 months and 4-years. The first two-doses are given 3 weeks apart, followed by the 3^rd dose 8 weeks after the second shot.

Children 5 –17 are currently approved to receive the 2-dose primary series of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for ages 6-17 has been issued an emergency authorization by the FDA and is awaiting recommendation by the CDC's advisory committee.

Springfield-Greene County Health is encouraging parents to call their children's pediatrician for more information on where to receive a vaccine. If they do not have a pediatrician or to sign up to be notified about community-wide opportunities via text message, call the COVID-19 Call Center at 417-874-1211. The Health Department is not offering vaccination opportunities for children under 5 at this time.

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We thank the parents in our community who have patiently awaited this approval so their children can be better protected against COVID-19.

Vaccination appointments for individuals aged 5 and up are available Monday-Friday at Westside Public Health Center (660 S. Scenic Ave.) from 1-4:30 p.m. To schedule, visit vaccine417.com or call the COVID-19 Call Center at 417-874-1211. People receiving primary series doses, or a first booster dose will receive a $50 gift card at Health Department vaccine clinics, while supplies last.

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Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].

Springfield-Greene County Health Department

"Helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives."

health.springfieldmo.gov | facebook.com/SGCHD | twitter.com/SGCHD

417-864-1658

227 E. Chestnut Expressway

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