affects children, according to Messiah.
“Adult literature shows us that natural infection, plus the vaccine-induced protection, gives you the best defense against COVID-19. There has been a misunderstanding from some parents who think just because their child has had COVID-19, they are now protected and don’t need to get the vaccine,” Messiah shares.
“While our study is encouraging in that some amount [of] natural antibodies last at least six months in children, we still don’t know the absolute protection threshold,” she adds. “We have a great tool available to give children additional protection by getting their vaccine, so if your child is eligible, take advantage of it.”
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Getting your child vaccinated
More than 60% of kids ages 12-17 and at least 25% of kids ages 5-11 in the U.S. have had at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for ages 5 and older. They also recommend a booster shot for children ages 12 and up who got two doses of the mRNA COVID vaccine at least five months ago.
If you have questions about how the vaccine will affect your child, talk with your child’s pediatrician. He or she can answer all of your questions and help you make the best decision for your child.