The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Louisiana Department of Health approved the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months to 4 years following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorization for expanded use.

Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children will begin to administer the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for this age group.

Although COVID-19 has been shown to be less severe in children than in adults, it is recommended that all eligible people receive the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as COVID-19 boosters. Vaccines have been proven effective in reducing the side effects of COVID-19, as well as drastically reducing hospitalizations and even death of people who contract COVID-19.

What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine in kids?

Side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine are relatively mild and similar to those experienced by adults and adolescents. These side effects include:

• Arm soreness at the injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Fatigue

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe for children?

Any type of medical treatment administered to young children can make parents nervous, even common treatments like receiving a vaccine recommended by doctors. Some children might also have a fear of needles, which can make receiving a vaccination even more challenging.

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and well-tolerated by children ages 6 months to 4 years, so parents who are anxious about their young children receiving the vaccine can find comfort in knowing their children will be as protected as they can be.

Who can receive the COVID-19 vaccine and booster?

Currently, the COVID-19 vaccine is available to people ages 6 months and up. For children ages 6 months to 4 years, the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are available. For children ages 5-17, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and booster are available. For people ages 18 and up, both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are available for initial vaccine series and boosters. Immunocompromised patients are also eligible to receive both the initial vaccine series and boosters.

If you have specific questions about the COVID-19 vaccine and booster, please contact your pediatrician or primary care physician.

How can I schedule a vaccine or booster for my child?

To schedule a vaccine for your child, or to attend one of our vaccination events, please call 844-888-2772 or visit www.ochsner.org/vaccineinfo. You may also schedule your child’s vaccine through MyOchsner.