© 2024
Local NPR for the Cape, Coast & Islands 90.1 91.1 94.3
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Children's COVID-19 vaccination rolls out across Cape and South Coast

COVID-19 vaccines for kids aged 5-11 are now available across the region.

Federal officials approved the Pfizer vaccine for the 5-11 age group last week, after trials found the shots were safe and effective. The pediatric dose is one third of the adult dose.

Most pediatric primary care providers are making appointments for children; parents are encouraged to call.

In addition, on Cape Cod, Cape Cod Healthcare is planning to give the children’s COVID-19 vaccine; details should be available in a few days, according to spokesman Patrick Kane.

Kane told CAI that drive-up sites are in the works for ages 5 to 11. The doses are expected to come from the state.

Cape Cod Healthcare has completed the necessary paperwork, Kane said, and it's awaiting word from the state on when the vaccine will arrive.

The Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment isn’t receiving many doses yet either, said spokeswoman Bethany Traverse.

County nurses are planning to work with local schools to host school-based clinics.

As more children’s doses arrive, Traverse said, Barnstable County will likely offer them at their clinics on Thursdays at the county complex.

South Coast

Across the South Coast, parents can get shots for their kids at any pediatric primary care provider in the region. Most offices encourage families to call ahead and schedule an appointment.

Some pharmacy branches have shots too, including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid.

The City of New Bedford is also offering pediatric vaccine clinics throughout November, including Mondays from 2 PM to 7 PM at the Andrea McCoy Recreation Center. Details are available on New Bedford’s Facebook page.

For both the South Coast and Cape Cod, the state’s Vax Finder website has a full list of locations offering the vaccination.

Daniel Ackerman has left CAI.
In his time at the station he reported on the South Coast. He came to the station from Minnesota Public Radio, where he reported on science and the environment. Daniel has produced audio documentaries on a motley mix of topics, from the science of sewage to the history of automobile license plates. He holds a PhD in climate change ecology from the University of Minnesota. Daniel was a 2021-22 Report For America corps member.
Jennette Barnes is a reporter and producer. Named a Master Reporter by the New England Society of News Editors, she brings more than 20 years of news experience to CAI.