COVID-19 VACCINE

Vaccinations against COVID-19 have been a part of the effort to control the coronavirus pandemic. The vaccines against coronavirus have been important for protecting individuals from severe COVID-19 outcomes, such as hospitalization and death, especially with the continual emergence of new variants. Vaccination also helps reduce the spread of the virus in the community, ultimately aiming toward herd immunity and control of the spread of the disease. The emergence of numerous variants have greatly complicated this task.

The rapid development of vaccines was a major achievement in the global pandemic response. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, which use mRNA technology, were among the first to receive emergency use authorization in late 2020. These vaccines have been shown to be highly effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death in adults. As vaccine trials included younger populations, recommendations expanded to include children and adolescents under emergency use authorization.

The development of these vaccines significantly altered the landscape of the pandemic. Population immunity, developed by both vaccination and actual infections, led to reduced morbidity and mortality rates. Many children with COVID-19 now experience mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic, often resembling common respiratory infections. Gone are the days of the Delta variant of 2021 with its many hospitalizations and deaths.

This year (2025) new leadership at the CDC has de-emphasized COVID-19 vaccination for children. The American College of Immunization Practice (ACIP) has been reformed and this new committee has not recommended universal COVID-19 vaccines.  In fact, we have not been able to even order the vaccine.  Some pharmacies may have children's doses of the COVID-19 vaccine available for those interested .   

Consult us for the most up to date information regarding this politically sensitive immunization.