Updated September 13, 2023
Notice: We expect to offer new booster shots in the fall. Revisit this page soon for more information. |
- Children ages 6 months and up should get the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Children who are immunocompromised should follow the guidelines recommended for them. (See below.)
COVID-19 vaccines remain the best public health measure for protecting people from the virus, slowing transmission and reducing the likelihood of new variants emerging. Full vaccination requires two or three doses administered at separate appointments, depending on your child's age and the vaccine you choose. (See below for more information.) When your child gets the first dose, we'll schedule the next appointment.
UCSF offers Pfizer vaccination (primary series) for patients age 6 months and older and Moderna vaccination (primary series) for patients 6 months to 5 years old.
Where to get the COVID-19 vaccine
Children who come to UCSF for primary care and are at least 6 months old can receive a COVID-19 vaccine at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals. To schedule an appointment, please contact your child's primary care provider.
Please keep these rules in mind:
- Patients 6 months to 17 years must be accompanied by a parent or other adult caregiver.
- Each patient and their parent or other caregiver will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms. If either one has symptoms, the appointment must be rescheduled.
COVID-19 vaccines are also available through many neighborhood pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid. If your child isn't a UCSF patient, we recommend scheduling an appointment at a local pharmacy, visiting California's My Turn website or contacting your child's primary care provider.
Vaccine and booster guidelines
Learn the latest guidance on vaccination and booster shots from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Guidelines for immunocompromised patients
Kids who are moderately to severely immunocompromised have different recommendations on COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters.
Visit the CDC's website for details on additional doses and boosters for immunocompromised patients, including who's eligible. Eligible kids can receive these shots at UCSF. Community pharmacies also offer them; make an appointment at California's My Turn website or www.vaccines.gov.