CDC recommends Pfizer vaccine for children aged 12-15

Adopting the advice of its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last night recommended the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 12 to 15, paving the way for providers to begin vaccinating them immediately. The Food and Drug administration Monday authorized emergency use of the vaccine in this age group. 

“I encourage parents with questions to talk to your child’s healthcare provider or your family doctor to learn more about the vaccine,” said CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, M.D. “And if your adolescent is behind on routinely recommended vaccines due to the pandemic or for other reasons, now would be a good time to work with your child’s nurse or doctor to make sure they get caught up.”

CDC tomorrow will host a call for clinicians on the recommendations and clinical guidance for using the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in this age group. The agency plans to post a recording a few hours after the 2 p.m. ET call for those unable to attend. 
 

FDA previously authorized the vaccine for Americans aged 16 and older.