FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 17, 2022

LAS VEGAS – Starting today, the Southern Nevada Health District is making COVID-19 vaccine booster doses available to children 5 through 11 years of age at all its vaccine clinics. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) amended the emergency use authorization for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine today allowing for the expanded use of this vaccine.

“The news that FDA has authorized a booster for younger children is good news as we see case counts increasing in our community. While many children will experience less severe illness if they do get COVID-19, we still see reports of those with severe illness and complications that can result from even mild cases,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “I would encourage parents and guardians to provide additional protection for their children against COVID-19 by getting a booster dose, or their primary vaccination series if they have not received it,” said Leguen.

As of May 9, a total of 3,561,212 vaccines have been administered in Clark County; 624,196 boosters have been administered; 86.92 percent of adults have initiated vaccination; 76.19 percent of people 5 years of age and older have initiated vaccination; 70.18 percent of adults 18 and older have completed their vaccination series; and 60.81 percent of people 5 years and older have completed their vaccination series.

COVID-19 vaccines are the most effective tool available to prevent COVID-19 and severe illness. The vaccines are safe and effective. Health District vaccine clinic locations and additional resources and information are available at www.snhd.info/covid.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.