The Berrien County Health Department says COVID-19 vaccinations will be available for children under five years of age starting this Wednesday. Berrien County Health Officer Guy Miller tells WSJM News the FDA authorized the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for the youngest children, and the Berrien County Health Department is administering the Pfizer vaccine to them.
“There have been quite a few parents who are calling, asking when their five year old or younger child can be vaccinated, and that time is now,” Miller said.
For the kids six months to five years, the Pfizer series is three doses, the first two given three weeks apart and the third dose administered at least eight weeks after the second dose. Miller says getting that age group vaccinated is another way of easing the effects of the COVID pandemic.
“The immunization provides immunity toward the COVID-19 virus. It does not necessarily prevent an infection from happening, but it’s very effective at reducing the severity of the disease.”
Miller says the health department has received 200 initial doses and is working with private providers to distribute more. Meanwhile, the Berrien County Health Department hosts vaccine clinics for ages 12 and older every Tuesday in Benton Harbor and every Thursday in Niles. You can find out more at the department’s website.
Vaccinations are available for children 6 months to 5 years old by appointment only. Appointments are limited. To schedule a vaccine, make an appointment online at bchdmi.org/covid19 or call 1-800-815-5485.
