CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The City of Chicago and Cook County are gearing up to give COVID vaccines to children ages 12 through 15.
On Monday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration emergency use authorization for the Pfizer vaccine to be given to 12- to 15-year olds. On Wednesday, the CDC is expected to grant full approval.
Both city and Cook County health officials said first doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine could start being given to 12- to 15-year olds starting Thursday.
“Like adults, all youth age 12 and older are encouraged to get the vaccine,” said CDPH Commissioner Allison Arwady, M.D. “Current data show that the vaccine is safe and effective in children, and it not only protects our kids, but also their families and our communities. In Chicago, communities with the lowest vaccination rates continue to have high case counts and rates of hospitalization and death—even in teens and young adults. Help us increase vaccine uptake and get past COVID by bringing your whole family to get vaccinated together.”
The city said people can make appointments for their children or just show up with them at any of the seven city-operated sites. City-operated vaccine site appointments for Thursday can be booked now through the city’s call center at 312-746-4835 or through www.zocdoc.com/vaccine.
A parent or guardian must accompany any minor under age 18, and unvaccinated parents and guardians will be encouraged to receive a vaccine as well.
Cook County said five vaccination sites will be open longer hours — from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. — on weekdays. No appointments are necessary. And that all five sites are ready to go for the new group of vaccine-eligible young people.
The following are the mass vaccination sites that will provide vaccines for children 12 to 15:
• Matteson – 4647 Promenade Way
• River Grove – Triton College, 2000 5th Avenue
• South Holland – South Suburban College, 15800 State Street
• Des Plaines – 1155 E Oakton Street
• Forest Park – 7630 West Roosevelt Road
Additionally, a DuPage health official said that age group (12- to 15-year olds) can start getting vaccinated Monday, for sure, but possibly as soon as Saturday.
Many private pharmacies offer Pfizer vaccine for youth.
All COVID-19 vaccines are offered at no cost to everyone, no insurance or ID required.
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