The virus that causes COVID changes over time. That's why getting the vaccine is the best you can do to keep your kids healthy. It also helps make sure that your kids keep attending child care, school and other activities.
Your child will be ready to resist infection—and it's an important way to protect the health of others.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children age 6 months through 23 months old. Children this age are at highest risk for severe COVID illness. It also recommends the vaccine for children age 2 through 18 years old who are in any of these risk groups below.
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They have never been vaccinated against COVID-19.
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They have a health condition that increases the risk of severe COVID-19.
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They live in a long-term care facility or another group setting.
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Others in their household are at high risk for severe COVID-19.
If your child isn't in one of these risk groups but you still want them to get the vaccine, ask your pediatrician if a single dose of the COVID vaccine might be a good option. The AAP recommends that any child whose parents want them to get a COVID shot should have easy, free access to it.
How to prepare for your child's COVID vaccination
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Call your child's pediatrician to schedule your child's COVID vaccine appointment. Your child can also receive other shots at the same appointment. Ask if your child is caught up on all recommended immunizations.
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Talk with your child before the appointment. Many parents may have concerns about how their child might act when they need a shot. But there are simple ways to help make it a positive, calm experience.
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If your child is 6 through 23 months of age and never had a severe allergic reaction to a COVID vaccine ingredient before, they should get the 2025-2026 COVID vaccine.
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If your child has a medical condition or takes medicine that weakens the immune system, another dose may be recommended. Talk to your pediatrician. They can explain which vaccine is right for your child and how many doses they should get.
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Schedule the next dose (if needed) after your child receives their vaccine. Make sure that your pediatrician's office has a record of your child's COVID vaccination status. Your child's child care, preschool, school or college health office also may need a copy of the immunization record.
Remember
Talk to your pediatrician. They know which vaccine is right for your child.
Disclaimer
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is an organization of 67,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists, and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety, and well-being of all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults.
The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
Adapted from the