Last summer was difficult for most of us, but COVID-19 uniquely impacted younger people. At an age where kids often explore independence and build new relationships, last year they were asked to stay home, stay physically distant, meet up over screens and wear face coverings. While these things were necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it was a trying time for children and teens.

This year folks who are 12 and older can return to that path toward independence.

Getting vaccinated can mean a return to camps, part-time jobs, travel, swimming and seeing friends smile in person rather than on a screen.

As we near the end of the school year, opportunities for vaccination are increasing. Oregon is moving COVID-19 vaccines into more clinics and pharmacies. For parents and teens, this is a great time to talk with your trusted health care provider or pharmacist about getting vaccinated. They can answer your questions about vaccination and may even be able to schedule a vaccination visit along with an annual sports physical.

Vaccination is the safest and most effective way for teens to return to doing the things they love this summer.

To find a vaccine provider who offers the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine which is approved for anyone who is 12 and older, select the vaccine type on Get Vaccinated Oregon or the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) Vaccines.gov.  

This article first appeared in the May 28, 2021 issue of Oregon Coronavirus Update.