Over 1 million kids in Georgia may quickly be vaccinated – however will mother and father allow them to? – WSB TV channel 2

The COVID-19 vaccine could soon be available for children between the ages of 5 and 11.

There are nearly one million children in this age group in Georgia, according to the National Kids County Center.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The state tracks data for children ages 5 to 10. At least 73,000 of them have contracted COVID-19. More than half of these cases occurred in the past three months.

Channel 2’s Tyisha Fernandes found that these numbers do not resolve some parents’ vaccination disagreement.

The decision to have their young children vaccinated is causing heated debates among some parents.

“So there are two disagreements that I think could play out,” said Natlaie Teseton, a family law attorney. “One would just be a difference of opinion between parents and parents, and then you would have a difference of opinion between child and parents.”

At this point, the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control only recommend that children 12 and older receive the COVID-19 vaccine. An FDA panel recommended it to children of old age, but the FDA has not yet approved it.

TREND STORIES:

Some parents say whether or not to vaccinate their children is a difficult decision.

“The feelings of guilt would be enormous if I risk something and he reacts to it,” said Eva Logalgo. “I would have to take responsibility for that.”

Taylor Walker wanted to take her time with the decision.

“You know it’s a little kid!” said Walker. “For example, I don’t know how quickly I want to make a decision about it.”

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

The local school districts didn’t say if they needed vaccinations after approval. However, some parents fear that if they don’t vaccinate their children, they may be forced to study online again.

Teston said that if there is a disagreement between a parent, or a parent and a child, they should speak to their health care providers.

“If there’s a parent-level disagreement about this, don’t just assume it,” Teston said. “Get involved. Think about the facts that apply to your special children.”

Teston said this includes whether or not kids have pre-existing conditions and the infection rate in their respective school or after school.

Divorced or separated parents may face even more problems, as one parent is usually empowered to make medical decisions. This can lead to a lawsuit if the parents disagree.

© 2021 Cox Media Group