Catawba County News

Vaccine Available for Age 12 and Up

Published: May 13, 2021

On Monday, the Food and Drug Administration expanded its emergency use authorization for the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to include children 12 to 15 years old and the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended its use in this age group on Wednesday. It is the first COVID-19 vaccine authorized for this age group.

The vaccine is currently available at some county pediatric practices, area pharmacies and through Catawba County Public Health. Appointments can be scheduled through Public Health beginning Thursday, May 13, by calling 828-282-2002 or using the online request form at www.catawbavaccine.org. Public Health is also accepting walk-ins from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Hickory Metro Convention Center. Additional vaccination sites can be found using the state’s tool at https://myspot.nc.gov/.

“It is normal to have questions about the vaccine, and we encourage parents to speak with a trusted healthcare professional like their child’s doctor or a public health nurse to get answers,” said Catawba County Public Health Director Jennifer McCracken.

Parents are encouraged to consult with their child’s doctor or speak with a Public Health nurse by calling 828-282-2002.