Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gave final approval for use of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 6 through 11 years and adolescents aged 12 through 17 years. This announcement followed the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ unanimous recommendation and FDA’s approval of emergency use authorization for the vaccine. With this approval, parents and guardians now have more choice in determining which COVID-19 vaccine is right for their children. 

Moderna submitted two requests for authorization. Both age groups are recommended to receive two doses, between four and eight weeks apart. Those between the ages of 12 and 17 will receive the same dosage as the Moderna vaccine for adults, and those between the ages of 6 and 11 receive one half of that dose. A third primary dose is also recommended for immunocompromised individuals at least four weeks after their second dose. 

“After CDC approved COVID-19 vaccines for our youngest Coloradans last week, Moderna’s availability for older children and adolescents adds even more options for Coloradans to protect their children, loved ones, and the community from COVID-19,” said Heather Roth, Immunization Branch Chief, CDPHE. “This approval expands our toolkit to make sure Coloradans of all ages can easily access a free, lifesaving vaccine.” 

Getting vaccinated means the youngest Coloradans and their families can look forward to summer activities and see family and friends with the peace of mind that comes with being able to choose to protect their children through vaccination. As both vaccines require multiple doses, children vaccinated during the summer months will have enough time to build their maximum protection before returning to school in the fall. 

CDPHE recommends parents and guardians make a plan to get their children protected from COVID-19. Adolescents aged 12 and older can get vaccinated at any provider that has Moderna vaccines for adults. Moderna vaccines for children aged 6 through 11 years are expected to become available in Colorado the week of June 27. Talk with your health care provider or visit covid19.colorado.gov/vaccinefinder for more information on where to find COVID-19 vaccines for children. Additional resources are available at https://covid19.colorado.gov/kids-vaccines. 

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