CDC says 600,000 children 12 to 15 have been vaccinated against COVID-19

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported an estimated 600,000 children have been vaccinated with the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine, the only shot in the U.S. approved for children as young as 12.

After 2,000 children 12- to 15-year olds participated in vaccine trials, the Food and Drug Administration on May 10 declared the vaccine to be safe and effective for children in that age group. Two days later it was officially recommended for use by the CDC in anyone over the age of 12. Over 17 million children in that age group are eligible for the shot.

"Now it’s time to get your shot,President Biden said Monday, in an update on the federal vaccination program. We have the vaccine. We’ve secured enough supply to vaccinate all adults and children above the age of 12. I repeat: Now is the time to get your vaccine shot.”

The CDC has acknowledged that children are at a much lower risk of the virus than the elderly and adults, but still encourages the injection to limit the spread. Americans 16 and older became eligible for the two-shot vaccine weeks earlier.

While the agency has said it's unnecessary for vaccinated individuals to continue wearing a COVID-19 mask, those under 12 who are not eligible for the shot are directed to continue wearing one in public.