Understanding COVID-19

The most important thing to know is that clinical trial data shows that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for children ages as young as 6 months. Side effects may occur and could include pain at the injection site, fatigue, and/or headache, which are likely to resolve within one to two days and are similar to the side effects seen with other vaccines children routinely receive.

While children are less likely to have severe disease from COVID-19 than teens and adults, they are not immune to the disease. Some children have become very sick and required hospitalization, including healthy children who did not have underlying conditions—nearly one third of those children hospitalized have needed care in the intensive-care unit (ICU). Experts have concluded that the known benefits of receiving the vaccine outweigh the risks of contracting COVID-19.

See the CDC’s vaccine schedule for children 6 months through 17 years (PDF).

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for children.  

You should also speak with your child’s health care provider to discuss any questions or concerns you may have. 

Yes. Treatment for any adverse reactions is medically necessary and covered by us. You should refer to your schedule of benefits or call the Customer Care Center at the number located on the back of your MVP Member ID card for cost share information. View guides to your Member ID card: 

• Child Health Plus (PDF)
• New York fully insured members
• Other members

Cost share is dependent upon place of service. 

Yes. Even if you had COVID-19 and recovered, re-infection is possible. Studies have shown that immunity from the vaccine is more reliable than immunity from a natural infection of COVID-19.

If you were treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma, you should wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure what treatments you received or if you have more questions about getting a COVID-19 vaccine.