Twelve to fifteen year old children will soon be able to receive a COVID-19 vaccination in Minnesota.
The Food and Drug Administration has expanded the emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine into this age group.
A clinical trial involving more than 22-hundred vaccine participants in this age group reportedly found that the vaccine was 100% effective in preventing COVID-19.
Pfizer’s vaccine is already the only vaccine approved for those under 18 years old. It has previously been approved for people who are 16 years and up.
The expansion of eligibility to 12 to 15 year olds will open up vaccinations to nearly 17 million more people nationwide, about 5% of the United States’ overall population.
According to Gov. Tim Walz, Minnesota is ready to vaccinate 12 to 15 year olds and is just waiting for federal guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“We have been planning and preparing for this moment and are ready to begin vaccinating teens 12 and older. Start making your plan, Minnesota — let’s get our kids their shot as soon as possible so they are fully vaccinated and protected in time for a fun, safe summer,” said Gov. Walz.
As of this recording, the CDC has not yet issued the guidance. But It’s expected to come any day now.
In addition to seeking emergency use authorization for even younger children, Pfizer is also looking to get its vaccine fully approved by the FDA.
A parent or guardian will be required to give consent for anyone younger than 18.
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