Why should my child get vaccinated against COVID-19? (Los Angeles County Department of Public Health)

Over 4 million children ages (0-17 years) have tested positive for COVID-19 in the US since the start of the pandemic. Even though COVID-19 is often milder in children than adults, some children can get very sick or have lasting health problems from COVID-19. Getting your child vaccinated lowers their risk of getting infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. The vaccine will also protect against Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) - a rare but serious condition in young people who have had COVID-19. Children who get infected can spread the virus to others even if they don’t feel sick. Getting vaccinated helps to protect friends and families, as well as the larger community. This includes protecting people with weak immune systems and children under 12, who can’t be vaccinated yet. Once your child is fully vaccinated, it will be safer for them to hang out with friends, play sports or travel to see family. In addition, fully vaccinated youth will be able to attend local concerts and sporting events, visit amusement parks such as Magic Mountain and Disneyland, and dine out in restaurants, among other important social activities and events. If fully vaccinated,  they also do not need to quarantine if they travel out of state or if a friend, family member, teacher or teammate gets COVID-19.