The World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) differ on whether children ought to receive the vaccine. Which should I follow?
If you live in the United States, follow CDC guidance. The WHO’s recommendation is not about safety or health issues with the vaccine – it’s about access. The WHO makes recommendations for the world, where in many parts, the COVID-19 vaccine is scarce and supplies must be allocated carefully, giving priority to those at highest risk for serious illness from COVID-19. The CDC makes recommendations for the United States, which is incredibly fortunate to have a plentiful supply of vaccines, including the Pfizer vaccine, which so far is the only one authorized for use in children ages 12 years and older.