12 to 15-year-olds approved for vaccinations

Michah Rigg (right), skiing with her mom Wyn, plans on getting the COVID vaccine. Photo: Wyn Rigg

PARK CITY, Utah. — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved, for emergency authorization use, the Pfizer COVID vaccine to be administered to adolescents aged 12 to 15. 

Clinical trials revealed that in this age group, this vaccine is 100% safe and effective. Trial results showed that of the 2,260 children who participated, none who were given the vaccine got COVID and 18 who were given a placebo did contract COVID.  

17 million children in that age group nationwide and more than 200,000 in Utah are eligible to get the shot.

Wyn Rigg, who has immunosuppression and has already been vaccinated, is the mother of  13-year-old Michah. Wyn and her husband Adam discussed it among their family and said, “My daughter will be glad to get the shot, we had even searched for a clinical trial for which she could volunteer.”

Intermountain Park City Hospital, Walgreens, Park City Film Studios, Walmart, and Smith’s are a few of the Park City locations anyone, including this newly-included demographic, may receive a vaccine. Check with facilities first to ensure the specific vaccine company you’re looking for is being administered there.

Casey Lebwohl is the mother of 15-year-old son Zac and 12-year-old daughter Layla. Lebwohl’s husband Jason is an E.R. doctor and co-owner of medical facilities. His parents already vaccinated, Zac texted his mom the breaking news two days ago when emergency authorization was approved to 1) notify her immediately and 2) communicate to her to begin the process of making an appointment a.s.a.p for him and his sister. The Lebwohls are prepared to travel out of state, if need be, to track down the shots for their children. 

Rhode Island and Georgia took it upon themselves to begin administering vaccines to 12 – 15-year-olds yesterday. Utah is expected to open up the opportunity within days if not hours.

Families are encouraged to discuss any concerns with their pediatricians.