COVID-19 vaccines coming for kids 5-11

The Randolph County Health Department will soon be administering COVID-19 vaccines to children ages 5-11 now that the Pfizer vaccine has been approved for this age group by the Centers for Disease Control.

The health department expects to receive a shipment of pediatric doses the week of Nov. 15 and will begin to schedule appointments for kids at that time.

The health department continues to host free clinics to administer the first, second, third and booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to adults. Call (618) 826-5007 to make an appointment. Clinics are from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. (unless stated otherwise) on the following dates:

Wednesday, Nov. 10, Moderna booster

Tuesday, Nov. 16, Johnson and Johnson

Wednesday, Nov. 17, Pfizer

Friday, Nov. 19, Moderna booster

Tuesday, Nov. 23, Johnson and Johnson

Tuesday, Nov. 30, Pfizer

Wednesday, Dec. 1, Moderna booster

Pfizer and Moderna booster shots are recommended for those 65 years and older at least 6 months after their primary series, as well as those ages 50-64 with underlying medical conditions. People 18-49 years old with underlying medical conditions and those 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting also may receive a booster, based on their individual benefits and risks.

Johnson and Johnson booster doses are recommended for those 18 and older at least two months after their initial dose.

COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses also are available at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and Kroger pharmacies.