Bivalent booster vaccines available for children 5-11 at Minnesota state-run vaccination sites

(ABC 6 News) – Governor Tim Walz announced on Monday that Minnesotans can now schedule vaccine appointments for children ages 5 to 11 to receive an updated bivalent booster at state-run vaccination sites.

The announcement follows updated recommendations from the CDC last week that expanded the use of updated (bivalent) COVID-19 vaccines to children ages 5 through 11 to protect them against newer Omicron variants.

“We’re glad this younger age group can now benefit from the added protection of this updated booster to fight COVID-19,” said Governor Walz. “Making sure our kids are vaccinated can help them safely enjoy the school year, spend time with friends and family, and participate in all of the fun fall and winter activities our state has to offer.”

Vaccinations will start this week at the state-run vaccination sites in Rochester, Duluth, Moorhead, St. Paul and at Mall of America.

All state-run vaccination sites will offer the Pfizer bivalent boosters. Appointments are recommended but walk-ins will be accepted.

For more information, or to make an appointment, CLICK HERE.

Bivalent boosters were initially authorized for people 12 and older in September. With the expanded recommendations from the federal government last week, the Pfizer bivalent booster is now available for people 5 and older and the Moderna bivalent vaccine is now available for people 6 and older.

Both products can be given as soon as two months after a primary vaccine series or booster vaccination. Children 5-11 receive a smaller dose than people age 12 and older. The bivalent vaccines are only recommended for use as a booster.

These boosters will continue to be FREE for all Minnesotans at both state and private sites, regardless of insurance status.