Three COVID-19 vaccines are approved for EUA
COVID-19 vaccines have been a hot topic since the vaccine program began. There are currently 3 COVID-19 vaccines with Emergency Use Authorization status in the United States:
- Pfizer-BioNTech
- Moderna
- Janssen/J&J
An Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) permits the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to use a drug prior to its official approval. An EUA is typically issued when there is a major threat to public safety, such as a pandemic.
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective according to the CDC
While this means that COVID-19 vaccines are technically experimental, it is important to understand that “experimental” does not mean “dangerous”. The CDC states that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. In fact, as of July 6th 2021, over 331 million people have received COVID-19 vaccines. Prior to achieving EUA status, COVID-19 vaccines were tested on tens of thousands of clinical trial participants. The vaccines met the FDA’s rigorous scientific standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality needed for EUA.
Pediatric Associates of Cheshire recommends COVID-19 vaccines for kids 12 and up
Before deciding if a vaccine or medication is right for your child, pediatricians take clinical data into consideration and weigh the risks and benefits. At Pediatric Associates of Cheshire, we believe that the benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine far outweigh the risks for children ages 12 years and older. There is currently no research available regarding children younger than 12, so vaccines are not currently recommended in this age group. This may change as new information emerges.
Serious side effects are rare
We recognize that many families have heard stories about vaccine side effects and are therefore apprehensive about COVID-19 vaccines. We believe it is healthy to practice informed skepticism. Fortunately, current CDC reports show that serious side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines are rare. Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, as well as generally feeling feverish, nauseous, or tired. Contact your child’s pediatrician if your child received a vaccine and you are concerned about side effects.
Notes about myocarditis and pericarditis
Myocarditis means inflammation of the heart muscle. Pericarditis means inflammation of the lining of the heart. Increased cases of myocarditis and pericarditis have been reported in recipients of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. Cases tend to occur in males ages 16 years and older. According to the CDC, the majority of these cases have responded well to treatment. While the CDC is monitoring new cases, it continues to recommend COVID-19 vaccines. Remember, medical decisions involve weighing risks and benefits; the COVID-19 virus itself is more strongly associated with myocarditis, and can lead to long-term cardiac complications.
For more information about the COVID-19 virus and vaccines, ask your child’s pediatrician or visit the CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html