INDIANAPOLIS — Children ages 5-11 are now eligible for a booster dose of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine in Indiana.
This comes after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention authorized the booster shot this week.
The Indiana Department of Health told vaccine providers they can start administering the booster dose to children in the age group at least five months after their last dose.
Dr. Christopher Belcher, Infection Prevention Medical Director at Ascension St. Vincent, says the CDC authorization is going to make an impact.
"Children still do get COVID; it does affect their lives. In some cases it can be that it just makes them sick and miserable, but there are complications from COVID ... and there are still problems with post COVID," Belcher said.
Belcher says COVID is still out in the community and very easy to catch. He's encouraging people to go ahead and get a booster.
MORE: Full coronavirus coverage from WRTV
"A lot of the pediatric offices do have the vaccine it in stock. It's also a good time to make sure your kid is up to date on all of the other vaccines. During the lockdown time. a lot of kids missed visits and are behind on their vaccines," Belcher said.
To schedule an appointment to get the booster dose or find a vaccination site, you can visit ourshot.in.gov or call 211.
WRTV reporter Rachael Wilkerson contributed to this report.
-
Reducing holiday stress for Hoosier families impacted by Alzheimer's, dementia
Experts say managing expectations, staying flexible and leaning on support systems can help ease some of the strain caregivers feel during the holiday season.
Hundreds gather downtown to honor lives lost among homeless community
Advocates say rising deaths among people experiencing homelessness highlight the urgent need for affordable housing in Marion County
Colts and 49ers head into a key Monday night matchup chasing playoff aspirations
The Indianapolis Colts are just trying to get into the playoffs. The San Francisco 49ers are playing for a division title and possibly the NFC's top postseason seed.
Last-minute holiday shopping? Tips to save money and avoid stress
With only a few days left before the holiday, shoppers and experts alike say planning, flexibility and smart use of technology can help save money and reduce stress.
