What to expect when your child or teen gets vaccinated
● COVID-19 vaccines are free and you do not have to show an ID to get your child vaccinated.
● You may be asked for insurance information, but you can still get your child vaccinated for free if you do not have insurance. You will not be turned away if you do not have insurance. If you have insurance, you should provide that information when you get your child vaccinated.
● Parental or guardian consent is required for COVID-19 vaccination of children 5-17 years of age, except under rare or special circumstances. Check with the clinic where your child is getting vaccinated to see if a parent or guardian must also be present at the vaccination appointment. When possible, we encourage you to go with your child so you can ask questions and learn more about the vaccine.
○ NOTE: For state-run vaccine clinics, children age 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
● At your child’s first vaccination appointment, they will receive a CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Record card. The card will contain the vaccine your child received and the date. Keep this card and bring it with you when your child gets their second dose. Make sure to take a picture of the card in case you lose it. If you do lose it, go to Find My Immunization Record for options to get your child’s immunization record.
● Your child may have some side effects after vaccination, which are normal signs that their body is building protection. It is OK if they do not have side effects. In fact, data is showing that side effects are less common in children age 5-11 years old compared to older children/adults.
○ Side effects are usually mild and go away after a couple of days. Side effects can include pain, redness, or swelling where they got the shot; tiredness; headache; muscle pain; chills; fever; or nausea. To learn more, speak to your provider or visit Minnesota Department of Health: About COVID-19 Vaccine.