HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The 66th Medical Squadron is set to administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to people ages 12 to 15 beginning May 19, following its emergency use authorization approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
At this time, the Pfizer vaccine is the only option approved for children under 16.
“I believe this approval is the next big step in boosting the immunity of our community,” said Lt. Col. Ryan Gough, 66 MDS public health emergency officer.
Vaccines will continue to be scheduled via the Defense Health Agency Appointing Portal at informatics-stage.health.mil/COVAX/ while Pfizer supplies at Hanscom last.
A legal parent or guardian must be present for both vaccine doses.
Officials said the standard 21-day gap between the doses remains the same, as well as any precautions and possible side effects.
Eligible children include those of military families, as well as children of federal employees, regardless of whether the child’s primary care physician is located at the 66 MDS. Children of contractors are not currently eligible.
Gough said that vaccinating approved youths will allow the community to continue mitigating health and safety risks.
“Evidence is showing us it’s safe to vaccinate children at these younger ages,” said Gough, who explained his own children are set to receive the vaccine. “This is another opportunity to move forward and protect our families against spreading the virus.”
Additional information can be found at www.Hanscom.af.mil/Coronavirus.