More Teens Share Why They Got Their Vaccines

The Delta variant is spreading across our communities. If you’re a younger person, a parent or a caregiver, you may be wondering how this variant is impacting younger populations.

The American Academy of Pediatrics tracks infections among kids and teens. They found that nearly 121,427 children and teens caught Covid-19 in the U.S. — just last week. That’s about ten times as many than at the end of June.

While the comparison is stark, there is hope. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the use of the Pfizer vaccine for kids and teens age 12 and older. The vaccine was proven safe for this age group and is highly effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalizations.

With back-to-school season approaching, the need for vaccinations is urgent. The good news is that teens and their families are responding. Over 231,000 kids ages 12 to 17 are already fully vaccinated in Washington.

Last month we chatted with a few Washington teens about the inspiring reasons they chose to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Since then, we’ve heard from several other teens and kids who already chose to get vaccinated, too. So, we wanted to share what some of them said about getting vaccinated, to help others decide.

Thoughts from the Community:

“My best friend and I got vaccinated because we know it helps protect us, and other people who haven’t been or can’t get the vaccine. My family is proud of me for thinking of others.” Eden, Age 12

“It feels good to know I can hang out with my friends again and have fun without worrying all the time.” Caden, Age 13

“I got the vaccine to help the fight against COVID-19 and hopefully soon go back to normal activities without the worries of being infected by the virus.” Andres, Age 14

“I got my COVID vaccine because it felt safe and reassuring. I also got the vaccine because it was pretty easy, just go in, wait for a bit, then leave.” Griffin, Age 16

“I got vaccinated for those who can’t and to protect my community.” Samiksha, Age 17

We applaud these kids for taking the step to protect themselves and their communities. We also recognize that some kids may not be ready quite yet.

It’s important to have conversations about vaccination as a family. Talk to your child about why people of all ages choose to get the vaccine, and how it can help protect them and their community. In case you missed it, we shared some tips in our first post about why kids got vaccinated.

While we don’t want to add “homework” in the summer, there are some great reading materials available for teens and young adults.

NPR created a vaccine guide for teens, with questions submitted by teens from across the U.S. There’s also VaxTeen, which is a vaccine resource organization created for teens (it was actually founded by a teen). VaxTeen works to combat misinformation targeting teenagers.

Consider sharing these guides with your child. Remember, you can always reach out to your pediatrician if you or your child still have questions.

More information

This blog is accurate as of the date of posting. Information changes rapidly, so check the state’s COVID-19 website for the most up-to-date info at coronavirus.wa.gov. You can also sign up to be notified whenever we post new articles.

The COVID-19 vaccine is now available to everyone 12 and older. For more information about the vaccine, visit CovidVaccineWA.org and use the vaccine locator tool to find an appointment. The COVID-19 vaccine is provided at no cost to you.

WA Notify can alert you if you’ve been near another user who tested positive for COVID-19. Add WA Notify to your phone today: WANotify.org

Answers to your questions or concerns about COVID-19 in Washington State may be found at our website. You can also contact the Department of Health call center at 1–800–525–0127 and press # from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday — Sunday and observed state holidays. Language assistance is available.