Covid-19 shots for kids available starting November 3 in Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County is now administering the first COVID-19 vaccinations for children ages 5-11, following the November 2 approval from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Pfizer vaccine is the only option available for children below age 12, representing approximately 167,000 children County-wide, and the doses are smaller and specially formulated for this age group, according to a statement issued Wednesday.

“This is an important step in protecting our children and our community, providing relief for families, and creating an additional level of protection to maintain in-person learning for our schools,” said Dr. Sara Cody, Health Officer and Director of Public Health for the County of Santa Clara. “We encourage all parents with children aged 5 and older to get their children vaccinated now.”

Vaccine appointments for children are available at vaccination sites operated by the County throughout the community. The County is also partnering with school districts to offer vaccinations onsite at approximately 80 identified school locations, with the first opening November 4 and served by the County’s mobile vaccination team. Vaccinations are being provided at no cost to recipients; health insurance is not required and there are no immigration status questions.

To sign up for an appointment or find a walk-in location visit www.sccfreevax.org.


Santa Clara County hosts student Vax Up Video Contest
Santa Clara County is hosting a contest for aspiring video artists in grades 6 through 12 to channel their talent toward promoting community health.

The County’s Vax Up Video Contest enlists students in helping encourage their peers to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Candidates can create an open-format 30 to 60 second video entry about getting vaccinated, with cash prizes for the top three students and a bonus for the first-place school. Winning entries will be highlighted on the County Public Health Department’s social media channels and reach thousands of people.

Submissions will be accepted through November 15. Click here for more information about the contest.