CDC Recommends Emergency Use Authorization of Pfizer Vaccine for Children Ages 5-11, Will Hold Informational Webinars

Last night, the CDC recommended emergency use authorization of the COVID-19 vaccine produced by Pfizer for children ages 5 to 11 pointing to the need for schools to get back to normal as a major factor in their decision. The recommendation was signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, allowing the vaccine to be administered as early as doses can be distributed. The CDC also created a helpful Key Messages and FAQs document with information about the vaccine process and its safety.

Two weeks prior, the White House detailed a plan stressing how schools would be critical in managing vaccine information and distribution to families. They indicated that FEMA will reimburse states for school-based vaccination efforts, and the administration will coordinate to pair schools with local providers and pharmacies to help with on-site inoculations.

The CDC will be holding two webinars this week discussing the recommendation:

• COVID-19 Vaccine Partner Update: Wednesday, November 3 from 12–12:45pm EST. This meeting will provide information following the Tuesday Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting and will include time for Q/A. You can join that webinar here.
• Providing an Overview of Recommendations and Clinical Considerations: Thursday, November 4 from 2-3pm EST. You can join that webinar here.

Read the statement by the CDC here.