Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 years old and over

From January 17 2022, tamariki aged 5–11 years can be vaccinated against COVID-19 in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Immunisation against COVID-19 is an important way we keep tamariki safe. It protects your tamariki from many serious complications and stops disease spreading within your whānau and the community.

Tamariki aged 5–11 will receive a children’s (paediatric) version of the Pfizer vaccine, with a lower dose and smaller volume. It is also given using a smaller needle.

Children are not eligible for booster vaccinations. Booster vaccinations can only be given to people aged 18 years or over.

Here are common questions about the COVID-19 vaccine in children.

• Why immunise my child against COVID-19?
• Where can my child get vaccinated?
• How effective is the Pfizer vaccine in children and young adults?
• Will tamariki be given the same dose as adults?
• How many doses will my child need?
• Is the vaccine safe in young people?
• Can my child get the AstraZeneca vaccine?
• Can my child get the booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine?
• Will I be required to give consent for my child to be vaccinated?
• How can I prepare my child for vaccination?
• Can my child have the Pfizer vaccine if they have allergies?
• What about side effects to the vaccine?

Why immunise my child against COVID-19?

The virus can be unpredictable. COVID-19 generally has mild effects in children, with symptoms similar to a cold. But, some children become very sick and need to spend some time in hospital. Rare complications can include Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C), which may require intensive care. This age group can also suffer long-term side effects (known as long COVID), even after mild cases of COVID-19.

As with adults, if your child is infected with COVID-19, they may pass on the virus to other people. Immunising 5–11 year olds helps protect whānau members whose health makes them more vulnerable to COVID-19. Read more: Protecting your tamariki from COVID-19.

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To read the full information about this go HERE

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