Last week the CDC and FDA approved the Moderna and Pfizer COVID bivalent booster vaccines for children. The bivalent COVID-19 vaccines include a component of the original virus strain to provide broad protection against COVID-19 and a component of the omicron variant.
What parents and caregivers need to know:
New recommendation for children ages 6 months–4 years who complete a Moderna primary series to receive 1 bivalent Moderna booster dose at least 2 months after completion of the primary series.
Children aged 5 years who complete a Moderna primary series may receive either the previously authorized bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech booster dose or the newly authorized bivalent Moderna booster dose at least 2 months after completion of the Moderna primary series.
The previously authorized 3-dose Pfizer-BioNTech primary series for children ages 6 months–4 years has been revised as follows: a monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is administered for the first and second doses, followed by 1 bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine as the third primary series dose, at least 8 weeks after the second monovalent primary series dose. A booster dose is not authorized for children in this age group who receive a Pfizer-BioNTech 3-dose primary series, including children who previously received a 3-dose monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech primary series.
I also want to bring it to your attention; if you haven't noticed with the surge of respiratory viruses; we are starting to run out of antipyretic (fever-reducing medicine) or over-the-counter pain medicines. I do not want to cause panic, but maybe the next time you are out; pick up a bottle of Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen and nasal saline spray.
Due to aggressive marketing; we tend to only think of Tylenol and Motrin (only if the child is over 6 months) but keep in mind that brand stores (Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreen, etc) also have their version. There are also companies like Genexa and Little Remedies that also have their fever-reducing medication. Remember every fever does not need to be treated; focus on how your child feels and looks.
Acetaminophen
Weight
6-11 lbs
1.25 mL
12-17 lbs 2.5 mL
18-23 lbs 3.75 mL
24-35 lbs 5 mL
Motrin
6-11 lbs DO NOT USE
12-17 lbs 1.25 mL (Infant Iburofen 50 mg/1.25mL)
18-23 lbs 1.875 mL (Infant Ibuprofen 50mg/ 1.25 mL
24-35 lbs 5 ml (Children Ibuprofen 100 mg/5mL)
(CHILDREN CAN NOT HAVE ASPIRIN.)
Have a wonderful day!
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