COVID-19 Vaccines Approved for Kids Under Age 5 in Contra Costa

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (June 22, 2022) — Great news for parents worried about their young children’s health during the pandemic. Federal and state health officials have authorized pediatric COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months to 4 years.

Previously, COVID-19 vaccine had only been available for kids ages 5+.

About 60,000 residents in Contra Costa are in the newly eligible age group. Parents will now be able to choose between two safe and effective pediatric vaccines made by Pfizer (3 doses) and Moderna (2 doses). The pediatric doses are smaller than those given to teens and adults.

Children may have mild side effects, such as a sore arm, fatigue, headache, or slight fever, and most pass in one or two days. These are normal signs that their body is building protection. Serious side effects are rare.

Immunizations to this age group are now available at County-run vaccination clinics. For more information, visit Contra Costa County’s Vaccine for Kids webpage.