Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Finder for Kids Website Launches

(KNSI) — Minnesota has launched a new website to help parents and guardians find vaccination sites for kids now that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has given the green light for COVID-19 vaccines for children between the ages of five and 11.

Governor Tim Walz says the state has secured a network of 1,100 clinics, schools, and healthcare providers to administer the vaccines to the 500,000 kids who are now eligible.

In a statement from the governor’s office, it says, “Getting our children vaccinated will help our kids be kids again. Now that the vaccine is approved for kids ages 5-11, Minnesota is ready to administer these shots quickly, efficiently, and equitably. I encourage families to make a plan to get their child vaccinated and help keep them safe.”

Education Minnesota Denise Specht encouraged parents to get their kids vaccinated, saying it is “the fastest way for our students to get back to focusing on school and enjoying the extracurricular activities that were canceled during the pandemic.” She also encouraged school staff to get their shots.

For the reporting period ending October 28th, the Minnesota Department of Health says there have been 15 pre-k through 12 staff and two pre-k through 12 students who have died from COVID-19 related complications.

MN Department of Health

Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said, “We want parents to feel confident that the vaccine is safe and will help protect their children from the severe effects of COVID-19. Having questions is normal. Reach out to your family’s health care provider or seek out information from trusted sources so you are ready to get your child vaccinated when they are eligible.”

There is an ongoing initiative to get kids between the ages of 12 and 17 vaccinated. It’s called Kids Deserve a Shot with a chance at Minnesota Vikings meet and greet experiences, tickets for concerts and sporting events, Visa gift cards, and college scholarships.

To find a vaccine for your child, click here.

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