Unsure About Vaccinating Your Teen Against COVID? Start Here

Since the FDA granted approval for the Pfizer COVID vaccine a few weeks ago, many parents, myself included, have been celebrating this opportunity to vaccinate our teens against COVID-19. Recent surveys show that approximately 60% of parents plan to immunize all their children once it’s available for their age group. However, that still leaves around 40% who are either uncertain, adopting a wait-and-see stance, or choosing not to vaccinate their kids. This presents a challenge in our efforts to achieve herd immunity and bring an end to the pandemic.

A lot of the hesitation among parents regarding vaccinating their kids stems from either a lack of information or the spread of misinformation about COVID vaccines. We all want what’s best for our children and will go to great lengths to keep them safe and healthy. However, some parents may mistakenly believe that avoiding vaccines— including the COVID vaccine— is the best choice for their children due to the misleading information that’s out there.

To help address this misinformation, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions and concerns that parents have about vaccinating their teens and tweens, along with science-backed answers to help them make informed choices.

Q: The vaccine was developed so quickly. How can I be sure it’s safe?

A: While the vaccines were developed rapidly, the underlying technology has been in research since 2003, stemming from studies on SARS, which is similar to COVID-19. The vaccine underwent extensive Phase I, II, and III clinical trials, and because of the widespread nature of the disease, researchers could gather the necessary data more efficiently.

Q: Are the side effects worse than COVID-19 itself?

A: Yes, some individuals experience side effects, but they are typically short-lived, lasting only a day or two, while the long-term effects of COVID-19 remain uncertain. According to the FDA, the most common side effects reported in clinical trials include injection site pain, fatigue, headaches, chills, muscle aches, fever, and joint pain. The vaccine’s benefits, such as preventing severe illness and reducing transmission, far outweigh these temporary side effects.

Q: What vaccine is available for kids?

A: Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is the only option for children aged 12-17. Moderna has released data indicating its vaccine is safe for this age group, and Johnson & Johnson is also conducting trials. Kids under 12 are expected to be eligible for vaccination this fall.

Q: Is the vaccine effective?

A: Absolutely. Clinical trials showed the Pfizer vaccine to be 100% effective.

Q: What about long-term side effects?

A: The mRNA technology used in the Pfizer vaccine does not modify DNA, and based on existing knowledge, epidemiologists do not anticipate long-term side effects. The components of the vaccine typically exit the body within 72 hours.

Q: Is the vaccine like giving my child the virus?

A: No, mRNA vaccines do not contain the live virus. They work by providing instructions to cells to produce a protein that triggers an immune response.

Q: If my child already had COVID, do they need the vaccine?

A: Yes. Even if someone has had COVID-19, vaccination is necessary for optimal protection, especially with new variants emerging.

Q: With declining cases and kids generally at lower risk, is vaccination necessary?

A: Definitely. More kids in the U.S. have died from COVID-19 since the pandemic began than from other illnesses for which children are routinely vaccinated, such as the flu or chicken pox.

It’s perfectly normal to have questions about the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Being a parent means doing your research, so consider reliable, science-based sources. For further reading, you might find this article on answers to your questions about COVID vaccines and kids helpful. You can also check out this resource from the CDC on pregnancy for more information.

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In summary, the vaccination of teens against COVID-19 is not only beneficial but necessary for their health and the community’s well-being. Parents should base their decisions on credible information and the advice of healthcare professionals.