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Youth 12-15 now eligible for Pfizer vaccine with parental consent

Vaccine providers are now able to give the Pfizer COVID-19 shot to adolescents between ages 12-15 following a Federal Drug Administration (FDA) expansion of the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) with the manufacturer.

“Based on a recent recommendation by the Texas Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the Pfizer vaccine can now be dispensed to adolescents between the ages of 12 and 15,” said Hays County Local Health Director Tammy Crumley.

She added that the vaccine must be administered in accordance with the FDA’s updated emergency use authorization (EUA). If the vaccine recipient is a minor, a parent, guardian or caregiver must be provided a fact sheet prior to vaccination. In Texas, parental consent is required for the vaccination of children in this age group, which may be given orally or in writing. The HCLHD recommends that a parent or legal guardian accompany the adolescent receiving the vaccine. 

“Having a parent or guardian present ensures we receive necessary and accurate medical information regarding the minor,” Crumley said.

She said she is in agreement with the Texas Department of State Health Services that promptly vaccinating the adolescents in this age group is another valuable tool that will help end the COVID-19 pandemic.

Crumley reminded the public that only the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is currently authorized for immunizing adolescents 12 years and older. Both Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines are authorized for ages 18 years and older. Most Hays County vaccine clinics use the Pfizer product.

Learn more about vaccine opportunities on haysinformed.com.

Important Vaccine Update: State Mobile Vaccination Team Call Center

On May 7, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) launched the State Mobile Vaccination Team Call Center. Businesses and civic organizations can call 844-90-TEXAS (908-3927) and select option 3 to schedule a visit from a vaccine team to vaccinate their employees, visitors, and members who want to be vaccinated. Homebound Texans can select option 1 to request a team visit.

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Hays County