Pfizer for fifteen-year-olds: COVID-19 vaccine now approved for children aged 12 to 15

BY NICOLE NADLER

Monday, May 10, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines on a new age bracket: 12 to 15-year-olds. 

Previously, the vaccine was only approved for those who are 16 years of age and above, which undercut nearly half of CCHS students since those in their freshman year are 14 to 15 years old and many in the sophomore class are 15 years old as well.

With new access, more students can return to school immunized and without the fear of catching COVID-19, as this has been hoped for and anticipated by many. This wave of excitement especially comes from those excited for the reintroduction of fully in-person school next year. 

Though being vaccinated is not confirmed to be a requirement to go into Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) next year, many are still feeling relieved for this new safety feature.

“I anticipate that masks may still need to be worn, at least for a while, but with the [hopeful] majority of students vaccinated I think many will breathe a sigh of relief.”

Social studies teacher Peggy Wilfong

“The idea that perhaps the majority of my students could be vaccinated is amazing,” social studies teacher Peggy Wilfong said. “I anticipate that masks may still need to be worn, at least for a while, but with the [hopeful] majority of students vaccinated I think many will breathe a sigh of relief.”

This change will likely impact the current and incoming freshman class the most, as all members within this age bracket can now be vaccinated, whereas other classes included students above the age of 15.

This vaccine approval comes at a stage in the country where summer is turning around the corner. Now with more of the population eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine, students can plan more events catering to this newfound safety.

“Personally, I feel really excited that I will be able to get the vaccine since I’ll finally be able to see some of my family again,” freshman Adriana Correa said. “I’ll also feel much more comfortable going into school if I were to have the vaccine.”

“Personally, I feel really excited that I will be able to get the vaccine since I’ll finally be able to see some of my family again.”

Freshman Adriana Correa

With this, the Student Government Association (SGA) can organize more in-person events such as pep rallies, fundraisers and games next year that the entire school can enjoy now that everyone has the full ability to be vaccinated. These are experiences that underclassmen who have not experienced a full year at CCHS can finally have.

Further, football games, Homecoming events and other sports games can be watched easier and by more people. 

With this new vaccine availability, the Cowboys can finally show the full extent of its pride and spirit with more ease.

Photo courtesy of National Public Radio