Children and teenagers age 12 to 15 are now able to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine in Clackamas County, after the Food and Drug Administration authorized its use and a western states scientific workgroup found it safe and effective on the age group.
The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup reviewed the federal process this week and unanimously concluded that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is safe and effective for youth ages 12 to 15, according to a press release.
The workgroup provided its confirmation to the governors of California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington Wednesday evening, and the Oregon Health Authority informed health care providers that vaccinations for 12- to 15-year-olds could begin in Oregon as early as Thursday
The FDA authorized the use of the vaccine in 12- to 15-year-olds on Monday, and the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices affirmed that decision on Wednesday.
“This is great news for Oregon children, parents, and families,” Brown said. “Vaccination is the best tool we have to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
“It is completely normal for parents and kids to have questions about vaccines. I urge you to reach out to your family doctor or pharmacist and get your questions answered today.”
Vaccination clinics in Clackamas County are already accommodating youth and children newly eligible to receive the jab, including one scheduled for May 17 at the Ackerman Center for students age 12 to 18 and their families.
Parental consent is required for those 12 to 14 who wish to receive the vaccine.
For information about Covid-19 vaccination clinics and availability in Clackamas County, visit clackamas.us/coronavirus/vaccine, call 211 or email questions to COVIDVaccine@clackamas.us.
Washington, Oregon, and Nevada joined California’s Covid-19 Scientific Safety Review Workgroup in October.
The workgroup, made up of nationally recognized scientists with expertise in immunization and public health, has concurrently and independently reviewed the FDA’s actions related to Covid-19 vaccines.
It will continue to evaluate other Covid-19 vaccines as they go through the federal process.