Statement from Governor Murphy and Commissioner Persichilli on Authorization of COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Ages 6 Months Through 5 Years
Statement from Governor Murphy and Commissioner Persichilli on Authorization of COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Ages 6 Months Through 5 Years
On June 17, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the Pfizer vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years of age and the Moderna vaccine for children 6 months through 5 years of age. Today, the CDC Director endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ recommendation that enables everyone 6 months of age and older to be vaccinated against COVID-19. This is welcome news for parents concerned with ensuring their children have the strongest protection against COVID-19.
Vaccines are safe and effective tools against serious illness, hospitalization and death. We have pre-ordered vaccine doses and have been working with our vaccination sites and healthcare providers to get them ready to vaccinate these younger children, and they are prepared to begin as soon as they receive the vaccine.
Children under age 5 who receive the Pfizer vaccine for their age group will be given three doses at one-tenth the strength of adult doses, and children under age 6 who receive the Moderna vaccine for their age group will receive two doses at one-quarter the strength of an adult dose.
We encourage parents of young children to schedule an appointment to get their child vaccinated. Parents who have questions about the vaccine should talk to their pediatrician or healthcare provider.
Everyone is urged to stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations. All individuals ages 5 and older who have completed their primary series are now eligible for a booster five months after completing their primary series.
Anyone who has not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine should strongly consider doing so to help protect themselves, their families and their communities. In addition, anyone eligible for a booster dose or recommended for a second booster dose who has not yet received theirs should get it today to enjoy a safer and healthier summer.
For more information on vaccines, treatments, and available vaccination appointments at nearby locations, visit covid19.nj.gov or contact the Vaccine Call Center at 855-568-0545.
