The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup has affirmed the safety of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children 12 to 15 years of age.
“Expanding COVID-19 vaccination to anyone 12 years of age and above will both protect those who are vaccinated and contribute to control of the COVID-19 pandemic in our states,” the workgroup stated in a press release Wednesday evening.
The workgroup represents Oregon, California, Washington and Nevada. Governors from all four states expressed excitement and support for vaccinations among the new age group.
“This is great news for Oregon children, parents, and families. Vaccination is the best tool we have to protect ourselves and our loved ones. With today’s review by leading doctors, pediatricians, and health experts, young Oregonians and parents can be confident in the safety and effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for youth,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said.
“It is completely normal for parents and kids to have questions about vaccines — I urge you to reach out to your family doctor or pharmacist and get your questions answered today,” she said.
In Oregon, 12- to 15 year-olds can get vaccinated as soon as today. The Oregon Convention Center mass-vaccination site “All4Oregon” has added new guidelines for 12- to 15-year-olds on their website.
Kids 12 to 14 years old must be accompanied by either a parent, a guardian or someone designated by the parent. Anyone 15 or older does not need to be accompanied or require parental consent in the state of Oregon.
All4Oregon provides a printable consent form, but a hand-written or typed note is acceptable as well, so long as it includes the parent’s or guardian’s name, their relationship to the young adult, their date of birth, a statement saying they consent to the young adult being vaccinated, and their signature.