October 27, 2021

Indiana prepared to administer COVID-19 vaccine to children under 12 next week


Article origination Indiana Public Media
There are more than 1,300 vaccination sites across Indiana prepared to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to children ages 5-11, once federal approval is given. -  Lauren Chapman/IPB News

There are more than 1,300 vaccination sites across Indiana prepared to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to children ages 5-11, once federal approval is given.

Lauren Chapman/IPB News

Listen to the broadcast version of this story.

Indiana officials say they'll be ready to start administering COVID-19 vaccinations to children age 5-11 as early as next week.

Federal approval of the Pfizer vaccine for that age group could come as soon as Tuesday.

Indiana Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lindsay Weaver said the state has already been preparing to get children under 12 vaccinated against COVID-19. She said there are more than 1,300 vaccination sites around the state ready for that age group.

“That includes a site in every single county across the state," Weaver said. "As soon as it’s approved, we’ll update our OurShot.in.gov map, so you know which locations are offering to 5- to 11-year-olds.”

READ MORE: Are COVID-19 Vaccines Safe For Kids? Here's What You Need To Know


Join the conversation and sign up for the Indiana Two-Way. Text "Indiana" to 73224. Your comments and questions in response to our weekly text help us find the answers you need on COVID-19 and other statewide issues.


Weaver said the state expects to receive more than 200,000 doses for children under 12 next week, with more to come after that.

“Personally, I believe this first round will be definitely enough for everybody who is waiting and excited to go get vaccinated,” Weaver said.

Weaver said any local organization – including schools and churches – can ask the Department of Health to set up a vaccine clinic in their community.

Contact reporter Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.

Copyright 2021 Indiana Public Media. To see more, visit Indiana Public Media.
Support independent journalism today. You rely on WFYI to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Donate to power our nonprofit reporting today. Give now.

 

Related News

What's at stake as the Supreme Court hears Idaho case about abortion in emergencies
FSSA encourages Medicaid members 60+ to select Pathways plan as lawmakers flag concerns
FSSA creates waitlist for Aged and Disabled waiver. Advocates worry it creates barrier to care