If my child had COVID do they need a vaccine?

Pediatricians and other experts answer questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.

Yes! Infectious disease epidemiologist Jessica Malaty Rivera, MS explains that children, like adults, who have had COVID-19 need a vaccine to protect from serious illness.
So, the vaccine is recommended for anybody regardless of previous infection because we know that previous infection doesn’t mount the same type of protection long-term as vaccine-induced immunity. So, even if children have had the virus before and have been sick with COVID, the only recommendation there is to wait until they’re fully recovered before they can start vaccination.

This information is shared for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The views expressed are those of the featured medical professional and reflect information available to that professional at time of filming. Always consult a health care provider for any personal health decisions. Click here for vaccine FAQs from the CDC.

Stay up to date with your COVID vaccine, including boosters!

COVID vaccines are safe and effective for everyone ages 6 months and older.

Immunity wanes over time. Keep up your protection against COVID by getting boosted when eligible.

Updated (bivalent) boosters are now available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

FIND FREE COVID VACCINES & BOOSTERS

OB/GYNs, NURSES AND MIDWIVES ON THE COVID-19 VACCINES 7

THE CONVERSATION: Between Us, About Us.

Doctors, nurses, researchers and community health care workers provide facts and dispel misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines in this FAQ video series from KFF with the Black Coalition Against COVID and UnidosUS.

A series for parents and caregivers created in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics provides the latest on the COVID-19 vaccine for kids.

GET THE INFORMATION YOU NEED!