Pencils? Check. Calculator? Check. Backpack? Check. COVID-19 Vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccine is now available for children and teens, including students with disabilities. If the vaccine is on your student’s back-to-school check-list, remember that they can’t be prevented from getting it just because they have a disability or need extra help. If you have trouble accessing a COVID-19 vaccine because of a disability, go to drcnh.org/covid-19 or call us at (603) 228-0432 for assistance.
If you or your family member with a disability are hesitant to take the COVID-19 vaccine, speak to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the vaccine. Over the last 18 months, the healthcare community has learned more about the potential impact of the vaccine on people with complex or rare disabilities.
For individuals who have transportation and can physically go to a vaccine site like a pharmacy or doctor’s office, same day or next day appointments should be available. Generally, the vaccine is available free of charge, but you should check with the vaccine site to confirm this before scheduling your appointment. Some sites may be charging an administration fee. Watch our video about people with disabilities accessing the vaccine at drcnh.org/video-topics/covid-19.
Vaccine access for children under 5
The Center for Disease Control authorized COVID-19 vaccinations for children under 5 in June 2022. To find locations to access vaccines for children under 5, visit https://www.vaccines.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt581/files/documents/2022-06/vaccine-pharmacy-under5.pdf or speak to your child’s pediatrician.
Vaccine access for children ages 5-11
Vaccines and boosters are available for children and teenagers across the state. Visit https://www.vaccines.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt581/files/inline-documents/vaccine-sites-map-children.pdf or speak to your child’s physician. DHHS also anticipates offering the COVID-19 vaccine at schools as part of their regular immunization program.
