Monterey County COVID Collaborative hosts kids clinic
SALINAS, Calif. (KION) The Monterey County COVID Collaborative is hosting a clinic Saturday where children between the ages of 5 and 11 can receive the Pfizer vaccine.
The Monterey County Health Department will provide the vaccine and is also offering vaccines for everyone ages 12 and up.
7-year-old Mia was jumping for joy after getting her first pediatric Pfizer shot for children ages 5 to 11. Among the first shots administered by the Monterey County Health Department.
"I was nervous...it was like a tiny pinch,” said Mia Matircorena.
The Pfizer vaccine for children is a third of the regular dose for adults and it is two doses taken at least three weeks apart. In Monterey County, there are approximately 43,000 kids that are now eligible for the vaccine. For Mia's mother, this day is a relief.
"We’ve been waiting for this for a long time. We’re just ready for the world to be normal again and this is definitely a step in the right direction,” said Joan Marticorena.
Other eager parents came with the hopes of providing more protection for their kids.
"I work in healthcare and it’s my biggest fear to work and then come home and make my daughter sick so and she’s active. She dances and I want her to feel safe," said Carissa Hawkins, a parent.
11-year-old Hayden Price is an active child who feels an extra barrier of protection against the virus.
"It makes me feel safer like I could do more things but also being safe at the same time," said Price.
The Breadbox Recreation Center will be having vaccinations for those ages 5 to 11 every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and those 12 and up. Parents can make their appointment on myturn.gov and walk-ins are allowed if they have enough vaccines.
