Following review of recommendations by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup has confirmed that pediatric doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children are safe and effective for children ages 5 through 11.

Pfizer pediatric vaccine recommendations

The workgroup strongly urges states to make every effort to reduce or eliminate disparities in the availability and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines in children ages 5 though 11 years of age, as well as in older children, adolescents, and adults.

To learn more about these recommendations:

• Read the workgroup’s full recommendation to Western states governors.
• Read the full press release about the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup Recommendations.
• Read the CDC’s statement about their recommendations.

Vaccinations remain the most effective tool for slowing the spread of COVID-19.

Oregon is working to make pediatric doses of the Pfizer vaccine available through Oregon’s federally qualified health centers, local public health authorities, pharmacies and pediatric clinics. Call your provider or use the Get Vaccinated Oregon Vaccine Locator Map to find a provider near you that has pediatric doses of Pfizer available. You can also call 211.

Pharmacies can now provide COVID-19 and flu vaccines to children

Oregon Health Authority has authorized pharmacies to provide COVID-19 and flu vaccines to children age 3 and older (the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine is authorized only for ages 5 through 11 at this time). Not all pharmacies may be able to offer these vaccines to younger ages yet. Before you go:

• Ask your pharmacy if they will be vaccinating younger children, and if both vaccines are available.
• If you have Oregon Health Plan (OHP) coverage, make sure your pharmacy accepts OHP coverage. Learn more by reading OHA’s fact sheet about COVID-19 and flu vaccines for OHP families.

Find answers to other questions about COVID-19 vaccines and children:

• Read our recent blog post about layered protections in schools, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Visit our new web page for parents and guardians.
• View the CDC’s web page about COVID-19 vaccines for children and teens.