Silver State Times

A recent study has deemed that the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are effective and secure for children 6 months and up to take.

The Western States Scientific Safety Review Task Force came to that conclusion after studying the vaccines, a press release from Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak’s office said. The Task Force provided the data to Nevada, California, Oregon and Washington.

“Many families have been waiting for the opportunity to vaccinate their youngest members and I am happy that day has come,” Sisolak said in the release. “Families can have the peace of mind of the thorough review process these vaccines have gone through, but I encourage families to speak to a trusted health care provider about any questions they have. Vaccines protect against serious illness, and I offer my thanks to all those who continue to serve on the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup to confirm the recommendations and guidance for COVID-19 vaccines.”

The study concluded that the vaccines provided antibody levels on par with people 16 to 25 years of age.

“This is a long awaited moment for so many families,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said in the release. “With today’s review by leading doctors, pediatricians, and health experts, Oregon parents and children can be confident in the safety and effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines for children as young as 6 months old. It is completely normal for parents and kids to have questions about vaccines––I urge you to reach out to your family doctor, health care provider, or pharmacist and get your questions answered today.”

The study found that children who receive the vaccination are less likely to incur a serious illness if infected with COVID-19, and the vaccine would also help them recover faster in order to continue their education.

“This is excellent news for Washington families and I know many parents who have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to get their youngest children vaccinated,” Washington Gov. Jay Inslee said in the release. “I encourage parents to contact their trusted providers to discuss any questions or concerns. These vaccines remain the most important tool in our continued efforts to keep people safe from severe COVID illness or hospitalization.”