(WWJ) -- More than 5000,000 Michigan children as young as 6 months old are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced on Tuesday that the pediatric vaccine, which received emergency use authorization for those between the ages of 6 months and 5 years old from the FDA, was recommended by the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices on June 18.
"Today parents of young children can breathe a sigh of relief as Michiganders 6 months and up are eligible to get their safe, effective COVID-19 vaccine," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "Parents have been patiently waiting for a vaccine for younger children for years, and now we are ready to help our little ones get the best protection. I am grateful to every Michigander who has gotten their COVID vaccine, taking action to keep themselves, and all our friends, families and neighbors safe. I urge parents to get their children vaccinated so they can enjoy their summer and get ready for the fall, knowing they are protected."
MDHHS recommends that providers begin vaccinating children ages 6 months and up as soon as possible, as it's anticipated that the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines could be available as early as today.
If you choose the Moderna vaccine, it will be two doses given 28 days apart for ages 6 months through 5 years. For children 6 months of age through 4 years, the Pfizer vaccine will be three doses -- the first two given three weeks apart and the third dose administered at least eight weeks after the second dose. For ages 5 and older, Pfizer is two doses given 21 days apart.
"Being able to vaccinate children ages 6 months and up with safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines is a significant milestone that brings us hope and protects our littlest Michiganders," said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. "These vaccines are incredibly effective in preventing severe illness, disease and hospitalizations. Even healthy children can suffer serious affects from COVID-19, not just those with underlying conditions. We recommend parents and guardians talk to their child's medical provider or their local health department about the pediatric vaccine and how it offers protection."
MDHHS recommends all eligible children get vaccinated and stay up-to-date on vaccines even if they have previously had COVID-19.
Children younger than 5 can receive vaccines from a primary care provider, local health department or federally qualified health center. Some pharmacies will vaccinate ages 3 and up. Visit Vaccines.gov for nearby vaccine locations – age-specific information will soon be available.
In Michigan, according to MDHHS data, there have been more than 427,000 confirmed COVID cases in those 19 years old and younger, and 44 deaths have been reported in ages 0 to 19 as of June 15.
Michigan residents seeking more information about the COVID-19 vaccine can visit Michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine.
