US expert panel backs Covid-19 boosters for children 5 to 11, World News

US expert panel backs Covid-19 boosters for children 5 to 11, World News

 Covid‑19 Booster for the 5‑to‑11 Crew

  • The US is finally giving the younger kids their “third‑dose” boost, and the news is both hopeful and a little quirky.*
  • Why the Hype

  • Waning Protection – After the first two shots, the shield starts to slip around the 5‑month mark.
  • Older Kids Get a Boost – Teens and adults already feel the extra bite from a third dose, cutting down hospital visits.
  • Pfizer’s Numbers – Early data shows kids boost up their antibody chops, especially against Omicron.
  • The Decision

    Committee Vote
    Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices 11 – 1 for boosters, 1 abstention
    Key Insight “We’ve got the first round done; let’s give them a kick‑start!” – Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot

    Σ CDC Director Rochelle Walensky: “We’re upgrading kids’ protection. A booster at least five months after the primary series.”“180 million+ doses safe. Let’s get more kids covered.” Pfizer at the Meeting – “Third dose = strong response in the 5‑to‑11 zone.”CDC: “Heart‑inflammation risk is tiny compared to older teens.”

    Current Realities

  • English Kids Only – About 29 % of 5‑to‑11 year‑olds have two shots.
  • Pre‑5 Year Olds – Awaiting approval.
  • Boosters in the U.S. – < 50 % of fully vaccinated folks have taken an extra jab.
  • What’s Next?

  • Redesign R&D – Potentials for new shots next autumn.
  • Special Pediatric Formulas – Dr. Amanda Cohn says kids need a tailor‑made version, not a copy of the adult shot.
  • Bottom line: The CDC’s committee decided boosters are a good idea once everyone’s had their first two, but the focus should remain on making sure every child gets the initial shots. The debate continues, but children’s health seems to be the headline act.