Photograph by A. Martin UW Photography/Getty Images
Pfizer completed Phase III clinical trial and released the results. This vaccine has showed that it was 100 percent effective against the virus and produced a higher antibody in the 12 to 15 age range than in 16 to 25 age range. The younger participants experienced the same side effects as the 16 to 25-year-old participants experienced—soreness, low-grade fever, body aches and fatigue.
Within this week the FDA is expected to authorize Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for emergency-use with adolescents between 12 to 15 years old. On Wednesday the CDC will decide to take a final vote. Vaccines are still needed to fight COVID-19 pandemic.
Expanding the vaccine to kids will help allow kids to have a normal social life again. Attending school physically is extremely important for all kids and without the vaccine, not everyone can do that. It is stated that giving kids the vaccine will not only protect them, but will help them achieve a more “normal” life.
Main concerns with this vaccine are how it will affect the kids. It is stated that in conclusions of Phase III completions there was a 100 percent efficacy on children in the age range of 12 to 15. It is believed that this age range does not have any increased health risks than adults do. In addition, these young participants in this Phase III trial will continue to be monitored for 2 years to determine any long-term effects.
Doses for children may vary than the doses for adults, but both age groups will receive the Pfizer vaccine— the amount of the vaccine and dose regimens will alter within ages. Data and research are still being determined for this. Extra precaution is needed when considering vaccinating young children with an emergency drug.
Read the full article published by LAURA BRZYSKI with Phillymag.com to learn more.
