The social distancing required to battle the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for children's mental health. Receiving the COVID-19 vaccine not only protects their health but also helps us reach herd immunity and return to normal life.

Sam Bleweis with WIS News 10 followed 12-year old twin brothers as they received their first dose of the vaccine. She also interviewed Candace N. Prince, DO, Chapin Family Practice, about her thoughts on the vaccine as both a physician and a parent. 


Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine received emergency use authorization for children age 12 and older by the FDA and has been shown to be 100% effective in preventing severe COVID-19 illness in children in that age range.

Dr. Prince points out that while the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 in children is low, there is some risk. In fact, 116 children in South Carolina have been diagnosed with Multisystem inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), a condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs.

Being vaccinated against COVID-19 eliminates that risk altogether and goes a long way toward helping us reach herd immunity. 

Children receiving the COVID-19 vaccine can expect the same side effects that adults may experience - a sore arm, fatigue and a low-grade fever for 24 to 48 hours. 


Candace N. Prince, DO, Chapin Family Practice