This news item expired on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
The COVID-19 vaccine is now available for children between 6 months and 5 years old. This means that the wait is over for families with young kids! Children under 5 years old now have the option to receive a lower dose of either Pfizer or Moderna. Both vaccines have been authorized by the FDA and recommended by the CDC.
At this time, Stacie Saunders, Buncombe County Public Health Director, says, “This this is an exciting time for families to be able to protect their youngest family members. We anticipate that some parents will have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine and so this is a great time to reach out to your child’s doctor with questions or just get more information.”
While it is likely that parents and caregivers will turn to their trusted medical provider for this vaccination, we want the community to know that the Buncombe County Immunization Clinic is ready to administer the pediatric Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. Our agency has been preparing for this phase and look forward to now serving the youngest of our community.
Many area providers, health centers, health departments and pharmacies are providing vaccine to those under 5 years old. Due to current regulations, children under 3 years are not able to be vaccinated by a pharmacist. Parents and guardians of children who do not have an established medical provider can visit MySpot.nc.gov to search for a nearby vaccine provider.
The Pfizer vaccine is given in a series of three shots, with the second shot given 3 weeks after the first dose and the third shot given 4 weeks after the second dose. The Moderna vaccine is given in a series of two shots, with the second shot given 4 weeks after the first dose. The experience of getting a COVID-19 vaccine will be very similar to the experience of getting routine vaccines. Use tips to support your child before, during, and after routine vaccinations when they get a COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccinations for children under 5 are available at the Buncombe County Health and Human Services Immunization Clinic located at 40 Coxe Avenue, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. No appointment is necessary and all COVID-19 vaccinations are available and free of charge. Visit MySpot.nc.gov to search for a nearby vaccine provider for your family.