County Executive Olszewski and County Health Officer Announce COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics for Residents Under Five Years Old

Baltimore County today kicked off the first day of summer by providing COVID-19 vaccinations for some of its youngest residents.
 

An Emergency Use Authorization by the US Food and Drug Administration on June 18 expanded authorizations for Moderna's vaccine to include children 6 months through 17 years and Pfizer's for children 6 months through 4 years. This authorization, coupled with approval by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for children under 5 to receive the vaccination, cleared the way for vaccinations in this new age group to be administered.

Baltimore County has approximately 45,000 children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years old, and Baltimore County vaccine clinics are now accepting appointments for this age group. To ensure minimal wait times for families, appointments are required; those who cannot schedule appointments online are encouraged to call the COVID Helpline at 410-887-3816 for additional information.

Baltimore County’s Department of Health and Human Services is also assisting pediatricians who may not have the ability to keep the vaccine in house because of temperature control requirements.

“The COVID-19 vaccine remains the best way to safeguard yourself and loved ones from the virus,” said County Executive Johnny Olszewski. “This new protection now afforded to our youngest residents is sure to be of comfort to families. The vaccine is readily available and we encourage all who are able — regardless of their age — to be vaccinated and boosted.”

“We want to make getting the vaccine as easy as possible for everyone, and will be providing COVID vaccinations at our community health centers,” said Baltimore County Health Officer Dr. Gregory Wm. Branch. “This new authorization makes getting vaccinated a true family affair now that everyone 6 months and older can receive the vaccine at our health centers.”

Variants of the virus continue to be a concern for public health officials and the potential for surges in the fall are possible. Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated and boosted as soon as possible (and as eligible) to protect against possible variants.