Children as young as 12 authorized to get Pfizer booster

On Jan. 6, the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup joined the CDC in recommending new guidelines for the Pfizer vaccine.

The new guidance, which takes effect in Oregon immediately, is as follows:

  • Children ages 12-15 can now get a Pfizer booster at least five months after their second dose.
  • The wait time for a booster dose has been shortened to at least five months after receiving the initial series of Pfizer vaccine.
  • Immunocompromised children ages 5-11 can now receive a third primary series dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

“Vaccines and boosters are critical tools in our fight against COVID-19, Omicron, and future variants. With today’s review by leading doctors, pediatricians, and health experts, Oregon youth, parents, and families can be confident in the safety and effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech booster doses,” Governor Kate Brown said in a statement.

It’s more important than ever to get boosted. It’s vital in protecting you against severe cases of COVID-19, especially with the Omicron variant spreading so quickly. With just the primary series of vaccines, you’re only 35% protected from Omicron. With a booster, that protection level jumps up to 75%. Boosters take only two to three days to strengthen your immune response.

Where to get a COVID-19 booster

  • If you have a doctor, ask them first.
  • You can also visit any of these free high-volume vaccination sites around Oregon, all of which offer the pediatric Pfizer vaccine.
  • Call 211 or 1-866-698-6155, toll-free, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, including holidays.