CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The City of Chicago is preparing to get COVID shots into the arms of 12- to 15-year olds once federal health officials give their approval.
Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said Thursday she believes youths across the city could start getting their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine almost immediately after it is approved by the federal government.
"Pretty much right away...I would expect the next day we will probably be ready to go," Dr. Arwady said.
Dr. Arwady said indications show federal approval could come as soon as next week to start giving the Pfizer vaccine to 12 to 15 year olds. The vaccine is already approved for people 16 and older.
"We could talk about by June, starting to have kids, some adolescents, fully vaccinated," she said.
Dr. Arwady said the city has been working with hospitals, pharmacy chains, and their own mass vaccination clinics to make sure they’re ready to vaccinate those 12-years of age and up.
"You do need a parent if you’re under 18 coming in to get that vaccine, but we want you coming in with a parent and a grandparent and a great aunt and whoever else. Make it a family event," she said.
She added, "for people wanting to do sports and wanting to do camp and wanting to get together with friends and everything this summer, just exciting to hopefully have a vaccine. You would need both doses again for kids, as well."
Dr. Arwady said test trials of the Pfizer vaccine are looking promising for 2- to 11-year olds, as well, with possible use-approval in the fall.
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