Iowa’s Rollout Plan For Administering Vaccine To Kids

Iowa local and state health officials are making plans this week pending federal approval of the emergency use authorization of the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 years old. Approximately 99,000 doses are expected to arrive between Oct. 27 and Nov. 4 for the introduction of the shots for children, according to an Iowa Department of Public Health spokesperson.

While, generally, children have a much lower risk of significant side effects from COVID-19, some serious cases have occurred. Officials say that vaccination not only reduces the chances of serious illness in children but also reduces the spread of the delta variant in communities, which can help contribute to the nation's broader recovery.

Upon approval, the vaccines will be administered by county health departments and other local vaccine providers, such as pediatricians, rural health care centers, pharmacies, and family medical clinics. Parents will need to give consent and must be present during administration. You can check local resources for your county to find a vaccination location near you.