FDA Authorizes, CDC Recommends COVID-19 Vaccines for Young Children and Infants

Last week, the US Food and Drug Administration extended emergency use authorization of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines to include children 6 months old and older, marking the first time that this population can receive this important protection from the virus.

“As we have seen with older age groups, we expect that the vaccines for younger children will provide protection from the most severe outcomes of COVID-19, such as hospitalization and death,” said FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, MD. “Those trusted with the care of children can have confidence in the safety and effectiveness of these COVID-19 vaccines and can be assured that the agency was thorough in its evaluation of the data.”

In addition, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, endorsed the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ recommendation that all children ages 6 months through 5 years old should receive a COVID-19 vaccine. 

“We know millions of parents and caregivers are eager to get their young children vaccinated, and with today’s decision, they can,” Dr. Walensky said. “I encourage parents and caregivers with questions to talk to their doctor, nurse, or local pharmacist to learn more about the benefits of vaccinations and the importance of protecting their children by getting them vaccinated.”