The COVID-19 vaccines for children have the same active ingredients as the primary vaccines given to adults. However, children receive a smaller, age-appropriate dose that is the right size for them. CDC recommends eligible people 6 months and older receive an age-appropriate, updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccine that offers better protection against variants.
The CDC has guidance for everyone 6 months and older based on age and medical condition. For more information about the safety, efficacy, and timing of each pediatric vaccine, please visit CDC’s page about COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Teens.