COVID-19 booster shots available for children ages 5-11

The Oregon Health Authority recommends a newly available COVID-19 vaccination booster shot for children ages 5-11.

Following federal approval, the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup announced Friday that the benefits of the Pfizer-BioNTech booster dose for children outweigh the risks. COVID-19 vaccinations have been shown to be the best protection against serious illness.

The OHA said children who are not immunocompromised should get a booster at least five months after receiving the second dose in their primary vaccine series. Immunocompromised children should get a booster at least three months after receiving the third dose in their primary vaccine series, the OHA said.

The vaccine is free and available regardless of immigration status. Schools have been asked to help support vaccination efforts.