The Pasadena Public Health Department on Monday completed its first day of administering the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 5 to 11.
According to Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) Director and Health Officer Dr. Ying-Ying Goh, the day went off without a hitch. The Pasadena Public Health Center vaccinated nearly 40 children in the first 90 minutes, said a pediatrician at the center.
“It’s been a joyous day,” said Dr. Goh. “We’ve had so many children come in with their families, and get protection against COVID-19. People are getting their shots now, because they’ll need to come in and receive their second shots in three weeks from now.”
As for the little patients, Dr. Goh said, “The children have been wonderful. It’s a little bit of arm pain, but other than that, they’re doing great. We haven’t had any negative reactions, and we’re entertaining them with coloring books and balloons.”
A total of 49 children were vaccinated on the first day.
Dr. Goh offered some advice to parents.
“I think it’s really important for parents to look at the information from the CDC about COVID vaccines and its safety and the protection that it affords, but also if they have questions, to please talk to their pediatrician or doctor.”
Goh added, “Their medical professionals can provide them with accurate information that can help dispel the myths and help them address any concerns they might have.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ recommendation on Nov. 2 that children 5-11 years old be vaccinated against COVID-19 with the Pfizer vaccine.
Nearly 8,000 children between the ages of 5 and 11 in Pasadena are eligible for vaccination this week.
Initial doses of the pediatric vaccine arrived early last week and additional vaccines have been ordered. Along with hosting pediatric clinics at PPHD and at schools in partnership with Pasadena Unified School District, PPHD has also worked with a network of pediatric providers and retail pharmacies across the city that are providing vaccines to children between the ages of 5 and 11.
In order to prepare children to receive the vaccine, PPHD recommends:
• Talking to children about the vaccine in advance;
• Wearing short sleeves to the vaccine appointment for easier access to the upper arm;
• Ensuring children are well hydrated before and after receiving the vaccine; and
• Planning to monitor children closely after they receive the vaccine for any side effects.
Parents seeking Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5-11 will be able to make an appointment through MyTurn.CA.gov, or at a local pharmacy that offers Pfizer vaccinations. PPHD will offer pediatric vaccines by appointment only for those registered through the MyTurn system.
Those needing help making an appointment can contact the Pasadena Citizen Service Center at (626) 744-7311, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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