Why Nashville kids could have better access to the COVID vaccine, starting Monday

Lower-dose COVID shots should be available to children in Tennessee by Monday after final federal approval this week for ages 5 to 11. The vaccinations will be more accessible in Nashville than in much of the state.

The Metro Public Health Department has announced plans for children’s COVID shots to be offered at its two drive-thru centers starting next week. Metro Nashville Public Schools has also scheduled a series of afternoon vaccination events from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. at high school campuses, starting Monday at Maplewood and Cane Ridge.

More: Read the full schedule of Metro Schools’ COVID vaccinations

With few exceptions, children need a parent or guardian with them to get the vaccine. They will be asked to return for their second dose at corresponding events three weeks later.

Public health officials also say the pediatric Pfizer vaccine is a little easier to handle, with a refrigerated shelf life of 10 weeks, so more pharmacies and pediatricians will be offering it too.

Outside of Nashville, some public health departments could have the kid doses available as soon as Thursday, though parents are encouraged to call ahead to make sure.

Public schools outside Davidson County are not expected to host vaccination events, after state lawmakers have pressured the Tennessee Department of Health not to work with them to promote COVID shots to kids.

The agency released a statement on Wednesday that acknowledged the lower COVID risks for kids while still attempting to encourage vaccination: “While young children often have milder illness than adults, outbreaks in this age group are common, can disrupt home and family life, and can lead to spread in the general community, including those at high risk of severe disease.”