The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, which was already approved for those age 16 and older has been approved for children ages 12 - 15, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced late Tuesday. Pfizer is a two-dose vaccine, separated by a three-week time period.
The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are currently only available for people age 18 and older.
Parents and guardians have a number of options to get their children vaccinated, including student and family vaccination events, existing vaccine clinics and private providers in Alexandria and Fairfax County.
Children must have a parent or guardian consent to the vaccine in advance or accompany the child to their vaccine. The process depends on the vaccine provier.
To get your child vaccinated:
In the City of Alexandria, go to www.alexandriava.gov/Vaccines. That page has information about walk-in clinics and local providers who are offering vaccines to children (and adults). Phone numbers to schedule appointments and online scheduling are available depending on the provider.
Alexandria also has two providers that are working with the Alexandria Health Department to offer vaccines to children (click here for more information).
In Fairfax County, go to guest.vams.cdc.gov/?jurisdiction=FX. That website will give you information about the closest location to you that has a vaccine available, along with a phone number to call to schedule an appointment.
Additional providers such as pharmacies can be found at vaccines.gov.