First approved in 2022, Spikevax was allowed for this age group under Emergency Use Authorization, meaning children could get it only if a doctor thought it was needed. The vaccine is mainly for adults 65 and older, but people 6 months to 64 years old can also get it if they have certain health conditions that make them more likely to get seriously sick from COVID.
COVID is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which spreads quickly and infects the airways, causing cold and flu-like symptoms. Most children usually have mild illness, but those with conditions like obesity, diabetes, nerve issues, or heart or lung problems can get very sick, sometimes requiring hospital care or intensive treatment. Getting a vaccine is still one of the best ways to lower this risk.
The most common side effects of the Spikevax shot are pain where the needle went in the skin, tiredness, headache, muscle or joint pain, chills, fever, rash, swelling or tenderness in the armpit or groin, nausea, and vomiting. Babies and toddlers may be fussy, cry, feel sleepy, have stomach pain, or not want to eat. In rare cases, they may faint or have seizures from a high fever.
Before getting the vaccine, tell your health care provider about any medical conditions that you or your child may have, including allergies, a history of a serious allergic reaction to any COVID vaccine, heart-related issues, fever, bleeding problems, or a weak immune system. Also tell your health care provider if you are taking blood thinners, have received another COVID vaccine, or are taking medications that affect your immune system. If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant or are breastfeeding, discuss what’s best with your doctor.
