CDC Authorizes COVID-19 Vaccine for Children Ages 5 – 11

COCONINO COUNTY — On Tuesday evening, November 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) joined the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in approval of the Pfizer (Comirnaty) vaccine for children ages 5 – 11 years old, at a lower dosage.

“Although COVID-19 may impact children less severely than adults, it is a serious illness and can lead to significant long-term effects on people of all ages,” said Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Director Kim Musselman. “The approval of vaccinations for this younger age group is a critical step toward ending the pandemic.”

CCHHS will begin administering the lower dosage Pfizer vaccine to children ages 5 – 11 beginning Friday, November 5.

A new, indoor vaccine location will be opened to accommodate what is expected to be an influx of individuals seeking the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as to ensure the health and safety of our staff and community as colder weather approaches. CCHHS COVID-19 vaccination clinics for children and adults are scheduled, in partnership with Flagstaff Mall, as follows:

FRIDAYS, beginning Nov. 5 at Flagstaff Mall, 4650 US-89, Flagstaff, near Hobby Lobby. Look for directional signage and enter through the outside door.

  • ADULTS: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., COVID-19 vaccinations will be available for individuals ages 18 and over.
  • CHILDREN: 2 – 5 p.m., COVID-19 vaccinations will be available for children ages 5 – 17 years. A guardian must accompany minors.

WEDNESDAYS, beginning Nov. 10 at Flagstaff Mall, 4650 US-89, Flagstaff, near Hobby Lobby. Look for directional signage and enter through the outside door.

  • ADULTS: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., COVID-19 vaccinations will be available for individuals ages 18 and over.
  • CHILDREN: 2 – 5 p.m., COVID-19 vaccinations will be available for children ages 5 – 17 years. A guardian must accompany minors.

Pfizer (Comirnaty), Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be offered to those ages 18 and over. Booster and third dose vaccinations will be available to those eligible. Please bring your COVID-19 Vaccination Card when seeking a booster or third dose vaccination. Masks are required at the vaccination site.

CCHHS appreciates this partnership with Flagstaff Mall. Their generous contribution of a convenient location will help to make the COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics as accessible as possible. This is an example of the many ways the Flagstaff Mall supports the community.

Several healthcare providers and pharmacies also offer COVID-19 vaccinations. Please contact them directly for the most current information. COVID-19 vaccines are provided at no cost. For information on additional COVID-19 vaccination opportunities please visit https://www.coconino.az.gov/2580/COVID-19-Vaccination-Locations.

Influenza vaccinations are available by appointment by calling the CCHHS Clinic at 928-679-7222. Flu shots are also available at many healthcare providers and pharmacies.

For the latest information on COVID-19 testing and vaccines, please visit coconino.az.gov/covid19.