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What if I want to wait to get my kid the COVID vaccine?

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

Pediatrician Rhea Boyd, MD, MPH explains the risks that parents and caregivers are taking by waiting to vaccinate their children for COVID-19.

While waiting to see is always a parent or caregiver’s choice, it’s also important that parents understand that that choice comes with risk, that if your child is going to school or is out in the community, playing sports, or even just in your household, that they are the least protected member of the community, because they don’t have that number one way to keep themselves safe from COVID, which is the vaccine. And, so, if you are waiting to see, it’s really important that your household and your family are taking other precautions that you mask when you’re indoors, that you avoid crowded indoor spaces that are poorly ventilated and that you frequently test your child if they go to school to make sure that they haven’t been infected with COVID.

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 boosters are available for adults and children 6 months and older. 

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