FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 20, 2022
Statement attributable to:
Sterling Ransone, Jr., MD, President
American Academy of Family Physicians
“The American Academy of Family Physicians commends the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for its authorization of two COVID-19 vaccines for children 6 months to five years old. Following a rigorous evidence review, both the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have determined the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are safe and effective for the prevention of COVID-19 in this age group.
“The availability of a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine for children in this age group is a relief for family physicians, parents and caregivers who have anxiously awaited the safety review and authorization of these vaccines. Cases of COVID-19 are on the rise in children, who can spread the virus to vulnerable individuals, as well as become seriously ill themselves from COVID-19. These newly authorized vaccines safely provide effective protection from serious illness. Family physicians strongly recommend that all eligible children should be vaccinated against COVID-19, including those who are healthy.
As one of the most trusted sources for vaccine related information and services, family physicians provide vaccine counseling and education to families and caregivers, as well as vaccinate eligible individuals of all ages. The AAFP strongly urges federal, state and local policymakers to prioritize the distribution of childhood vaccines to primary care practices.
“Ensuring equitable access to a safe, effective vaccine is critical to ending this pandemic. We urge Congress to provide the additional COVID-19 funding needed to ensure equitable distribution and access to booster shots and vaccines for all individuals 6 months and older. Additional federal funding is also needed to restore the programs that provide uninsured patients with free access to vaccines and boosters, as well as testing and treatment for COVID-19.
“Family physicians play an instrumental role in caring for, counseling and immunizing children and their families. Widespread vaccination for COVID-19 among all age groups is a critical tool to building a community of immunity that best protects you, your family and your community.”
Editor's Note: To arrange an interview with Dr. Ransone, contact Janelle Davis, (913) 912-0377, or jdavis@aafp.org.
###
About American Academy of Family Physicians
Founded in 1947, the AAFP represents 130,000 physicians and medical students nationwide. It is the largest medical society devoted solely to primary care. Family physicians conduct approximately one in five office visits — that’s 192 million visits annually or 48 percent more than the next most visited medical specialty. Today, family physicians provide more care for America’s underserved and rural populations than any other medical specialty. Family medicine’s cornerstone is an ongoing, personal patient-physician relationship focused on integrated care. To learn more about the specialty of family medicine and the AAFP's positions on issues and clinical care, visit www.aafp.org. For information about health care, health conditions and wellness, please visit the AAFP’s consumer website, www.familydoctor.org.