As the holiday season approaches, health experts are encouraging parents to get their kids vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible. This year, many families can look forward to celebrating together in person after a long stretch of social distancing, thanks to the widespread availability of vaccines. While adults have been getting their shots for nearly a year, kids aged 5 to 11 just started receiving the vaccine earlier this month. If you’re still undecided about scheduling an appointment for your child, one expert is stressing the importance of getting at least that first dose before the holiday festivities kick off.
Expert Insights from Dr. Lisa Thompson
Dr. Lisa Thompson, a public health expert, shared some valuable insights on Twitter for families preparing for Thanksgiving. Her top advice? Begin the vaccination process without delay. “Even one dose for your child 10 days prior to gatherings offers significant protection,” she mentioned. Children aged 12 and older have been eligible for vaccination since May, but the younger group only became eligible in early November, with the Pfizer vaccine being the only one authorized for them. Ideally, kids should receive two doses spaced three weeks apart. Any child who gets their first shot soon could complete the series by Christmas, but it’s worth noting that they won’t be considered fully vaccinated until two weeks after the second dose.
Additional Safety Measures for Gatherings
It’s also important to remember that even vaccinated individuals can still transmit COVID-19, so Dr. Thompson offered additional advice for family gatherings this year. “Consider doing a rapid test the morning of the event,” she suggested. “If the result is positive, stay home. This precaution can significantly reduce transmission risk—much more than just masking intermittently.” She also recommended taking celebrations outdoors if the weather allows, or at least keeping windows open for better ventilation. These simple steps can contribute to a healthier and happier holiday season for everyone. The most crucial step? Getting that initial dose of the vaccine, which Pfizer claims is over 90% effective in preventing the virus—definitely a gift for parents who have been anxiously awaiting an end to the pandemic.
Resources for Family Planning
If you’re navigating parenthood and considering other family planning options, you might want to check out resources like Make A Mom, which offers at-home insemination solutions and the only reusable option available. Also, join the Make A Mom Facebook group for support and community. For a closer look at how at-home insemination works, visit this guide. And for those exploring fertility treatments, March of Dimes provides excellent resources to help you on your journey. As you consider your options, you might also find helpful information in our other blog post here about home insemination kits like the CryoBaby, an authority in the field.
Conclusion
In summary, with the holidays around the corner, getting your kids vaccinated against COVID-19 is a top priority. Experts recommend starting the process immediately to ensure your child is as protected as possible while still enjoying family gatherings. Implementing safety measures like testing and improving ventilation can also enhance the holiday experience.
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