A children’s version of the new bivalent COVID-19 booster is now available for kids 5 to 11 years old who are at least two months past their last dose of their primary series vaccine or booster.
This new booster, which was authorized for people ages 12 and up in early September, offers protection against both the original virus that causes COVID-19 and newer variants. Children who have already received an earlier booster should also get this booster to ensure they have the most up-to-date protection.
YKHC will be offering the booster by appointment only to children 5 to 11 in Bethel starting Monday, October 24. Call 907-543-6949 to schedule an appointment.
YKHC is developing plans to offer the bivalent booster to kids 5 to 11 years old in villages. Parents and guardians of eligible children in villages should call their clinic to sign up children to receive the booster when it is available. In villages with clinics that are currently without staff, call 907-543-6420.
“We are glad to be able to offer this protection to kids 5 to 11 years old in our region,” said YKHC Chief of Staff Dr. Ellen Hodges. “It not only protects them against the newer strains of COVID-19 but also reduces the amount of the virus circulating in our region, keeping us all safer. This is especially important as families gather during the holiday season.”