Pfizer Vaccine Available for Children Ages 5 - 11 Saturday

Riverside County children between 5 and 11 years of age can get the Pfizer vaccine at one of various vaccine clinics operated by Public Health and community partners.

The vaccine became available after officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and the Western States Scientific Workgroup approved the use of the smaller Pfizer dose for children this week, and Riverside County officials moved forward with a rollout plan to begin administering the vaccines at county operated clinics starting Saturday (Nov. 6) Some clinics operated by community partners may begin providing the vaccines to the 5-11 year olds beginning today (Nov. 4)

“The vaccine for children in this age group is so important as we continue to slow and stop the spread of the COVID virus, particularly since we have seen an increase in cases among this population,” said Dr. Geoffrey Leung, Public Health Officer for Riverside County. “Parents should be confident the vaccine for these children is safe and effective.”

Those under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or adult to get vaccinated. The amount of the vaccine to be administered will be one-third the dose used for adults. 

COVID-19 vaccines have been available in Riverside County since December, and more than 2.9 million doses have been administered between Public Health clinics and those operated by community partners, such as pharmacies, hospitals, private health providers and private clinics.

Riverside County health officials are operating four fixed clinic locations throughout the county, along with several additional mobile vaccine teams that provide services to hard-to-reach communities and neighborhoods.

Those who have yet to get their first dose are also encouraged to get vaccinated.

Those seeking information about locations for clinics, or to make an appointment can use http://myturn.ca.gov or www.rivcoph.org/covid-19-vaccine or call 951-358-5000. For more information about the vaccine or COVID-19, click www.rivcoph.org/coronavirus