Wishing you and your loved ones many moments of joy, peace and hope this holiday season.
May the year ahead bring both health and happiness!
Holiday Hours: We wanted to make you aware upcoming changes in our operating hours during the holidays.
Anderson Location: The Anderson Office will be open with normal business hours except for December 24 – 26 and December 31, and January 1-2. On those dates we will be open for ill appointments only. Please call our office between 8:30-9:30AM to schedule.
Amelia Location: Our Amelia Office will be closed on December 24 – January 3. We will reopen for normal hours on January 4.
Phone Support: We will continue to have a nurse or physician available by phone 24/7 at 513-232-8100 every day of the holiday season. On all other dates we will be open with our current convenient hours.
P.S. If we haven’t seen you in a while, we’re here for you when you need us.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommend booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine for all people ages 16 and older.
We now have booster shots available for all eligible people. You can schedule appointments online through our patient portal or by calling 513-232-8100.
Also, is your child up to date on their check-up? At 16 and 17 years of age our patients often receive their meningococcal vaccinations at these appointments. If your child is past due, you can schedule an appointment for their check-up and receive the COVID vaccine at the same time!
Why should I get a booster shot?
While the vaccines currently available have been providing strong protection against serious illness, a booster dose “reminds” your immune system of what the COVID-19 virus looks like. It also protects you against new strains of the virus.
Booster shots also help decrease the chance you could spread COVID-19 to someone else.
When should I get a booster shot?
People who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines should get a booster at least 6 months after the second dose.
People who received the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine should get a booster at least 2 months after the first shot.
Which booster should I get?
The booster shot can be of any of the COVID-19 vaccines authorized in the United States – you do not have to receive the booster dose of the same manufacturer from your first vaccination(s).
You can view the most up-to-date information on the CDC’s website.
We hope you and your family are adjusting to the colder weather and the recent snowfall awoke to this morning! We love that this time of year often leads to building snowmen, sledding, making snow ice cream, and other fun-filled outdoor activities.
Since inclement weather may occur in the upcoming winter months, we wanted to share information on how our offices handle these conditions.
Communication: In the event that we need to cancel your visit due to weather, we will contact you. You may receive notice from us by phone call, text, or email depending upon the time of day and number of appointments needing to be cancelled. Rest assured a member of our team will be in communication with you to find an alternative time to safely visit your pediatrician. If you do not hear from us, it is safe to assume we are open.
Social Media Updates: As soon as we determine we are cancelling appointments we will post this onto our social media sites. Please follow our Facebook or Instagram accounts for this and additional health related information.
Telemedicine Alternatives: If you are scheduled for select appointments such as behavioral health visits, medication follow-ups, and simple ill appointments, we may offer a virtual visit as an alternative form of care from the comfort of your home. Unfortunately, visits that require a physical exam or testing are not always appropriate for telemedicine.
Patient Cancellations: Should you have issues traveling to your visit due to inclement weather, we do offer the option to cancel with no cancellation charge.
Our team is always here for you. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to call us at 513-232-8100 or send a non-urgent message through the patient portal.
When it comes to fighting COVID-19, we know there are many sources of information. We are grateful you trust us to give you the answers you need and the care your family deserves.
Our Approach to COVID-19 Vaccine
When you come to Anderson Hills Pediatrics, we want you to feel comfortable throughout the vaccine process. Here are a few things to get you started:
Sign-up online for your child’s COVID-19 Vaccine. We currently provide the COVID-19 for 5 years and older at our Amelia and Anderson locations. Please note that the availability of the 5 to 11 year doses are limited at this time.
Prior to On the day of your appointment, you will check in by using Phreesia We will verify your information and talk to you about the type of vaccine you would like administered for your child. For those under 18, only the Pfizer-BioNTech is approved.
We may ask for your ID or health insurance card, although there is no out-of-pocket charges for the COVID-19 vaccine.
After check-in, you and your child may wait in the lobby. We kindly ask for your patience as you allow us to get your vaccine ready.
COVID-19 Vaccine for Children Under 12
Whether you’re the parent of a teen or a grade-school-age child, you likely have questions about the vaccine. Many are wondering how we know that it is safe for kids.
According to the CDC, clinical trials are underway to ensure the vaccines are safe and work to prevent COVID-19 illness in younger children and vaccines are now available for children ages 5-11.
“Vaccinating children will help protect them from getting COVID-19 and therefore reducing their risk of severe disease, hospitalizations, or developing long-term COVID-19 complications. Getting your children vaccinated can help protect them against COVID-19, as well as reduce disruptions to in-person learning and activities by helping curb community transmission.” – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Young people are vulnerable to the virus, just like everyone else. Getting them vaccinated is the best way to protect them, prevent the spread of COVID-19, and protect others.
The COVID-19 vaccine for children is not the same as those administered to older teenagers and adults. They are sent to us, specifically marked and indicated for children. Children and teens are not just little adults. Special concern has been taken for their approved vaccines.
What to Expect
Before the shot, we realize you may have questions. We will answer any concerns you may have. We will inform you of the risks and benefits of protecting your child against COVID-19. We will talk about possible side effects, and encourage you to wait with your child around our office for about 15 minutes before you leave.
This can be completed on Phreesia as part of your pre-visit paperwork. It is to make sure they are a good candidate for the vaccine.
If you answer yes to any question, you may need to talk to your child’s physician to determine if or when would be a better time for your child to receive the vaccine. For example, if your child is feeling moderately sick or severely ill, it is recommended to wait until they feel better before they receive the vaccine.
The questionnaire will help us determine if there is any reason your child should not get the COVID-19 vaccine today. If you answer “yes” to any question, it does not necessarily mean your child should not be vaccinated. It just means additional questions may be asked. If a question is not clear, please ask a member of our clinical team to explain it.
After the vaccine, you will likely schedule another appointment for the next dose, if appropriate. Your child should be able to return to normal activities immediately after leaving the office.
Types of Covid-19 Vaccines
COVID-19 vaccines are authorized for different age groups and are given usually in the arm as a two-dose series or single dose.
Currently, only the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine is approved for children under age 18. This is the vaccine we have at our practice and are using to vaccinate our patients with. Anyone outside the authorized age groups for a product should not receive the vaccine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the COVID-19 Vaccine Work?
The COVID-19 vaccine works similarly to other vaccines. Germs such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, invade and multiply inside the body. The vaccine helps stop this by teaching the immune system to recognize and make antibodies that fight the virus.
Is the vaccine safe for children?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children who are 5 years of age and older get vaccinated to help protect against COVID-19. According to the CDC, the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination outweigh the known and potential risks. Before recommending COVID-19 vaccination for children, scientists conducted clinical trials. The FDA gave the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine emergency authorization to use in children ages 5-15 years old and full approval to use in people ages 16 years and older.
Who recommends the vaccine for children age 5-11?
On November 2, CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, M.D., M.P.H., endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation that children 5 to 11 years old be vaccinated against COVID-19 with the Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric vaccine.
CDC expands vaccine recommendations to about 28 million children in the United States in this age group and allows providers to begin vaccinating them as soon as possible.
Will my child still get COVID-19 if he or she is fully vaccinated?
After your child is fully vaccinated, there is less of a chance he/she will get COVID-19. If your child does get infected with the virus, including the widely circulating Delta variant, the child likely will not be as sick. Your child is also are much less likely to be hospitalized if you get the virus.
The vaccine is approved for emergencies. What is Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)?
The Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) authority allows FDA to help strengthen the nation’s public health protections when there is a public health crisis. The FDA requires you to have special information so you can make an informed decision about vaccination.
My child has been allergic to a vaccine in the past. Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe for my child?
According to the CDC, if your child has a history of allergy in past vaccines, you should talk to your provider to see if your child should move forward with the COVID-19 vaccine. In the screening form from the CDC on page four, there are ingredients listed and special considerations if your child might be at risk.
How does an mRNA vaccine help children?
The vaccine currently approved for those under 18 is considered an mRNA vaccine. According to healthychildren.org, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines contain messenger RNA (mRNA). mRNA is made up of nucleic acids, which are the building blocks of all our cells. The mRNA carries instructions inside a lipid (fat) coating that tells cells to produce harmless pieces of “spike” protein. These look like spikes on the actual COVID virus.
When the cells make these pieces of spike protein, the immune system recognizes that they should not be there. Your child’s body then makes antibodies that get rid of the spike pieces. These antibodies remember how to protect your child from the virus in the future. A second dose three weeks after the first dose provides the instructions again, so the immune system can remember and practice how to get rid of the spike pieces.
Do mRNA vaccines change your child’s DNA?
No, the COVID-19 vaccines made with messenger RNA do not interact with your child’s DNA at all. DNA is your genetic material and it is stored in the nucleus of a cell. The mRNA in the vaccines never gets into the nucleus. And once your immune cells have used the instructions, they break down the mRNA and it exits the body.
Does the COVID-19 Vaccine contain live parts of the Virus?
No, mRNA vaccines do not contain any live or dead parts of the virus.
How were the vaccines developed? Were they rushed?
Vaccines were first tested in cells to determine if they are safe for people. The research is shared with the FDA, and then if approved, the researchers start clinical trials. There are several stages of clinical trails, building from hundreds to thousands of people. They undergo rigorous testing processes and close communication with participants throughout clinical trials. There are specific clinical trials for children underway.
See the video below from the American Academy of Pediatrics: AAP Video
My Child is Healthy. Why does he need the COVID vaccine?
My child had COVID. Why do they need the shot?
How do we know the COVID vaccine is safe?
How does the MRNA COVID vaccine work?
What are the side effects of the COVID vaccine?
Schedule Your Vaccine Appointment
We thank you for trusting us to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to your child. We know you have many options, and we are grateful you trust us with your child’s healthcare.
We would love to help answer your questions and help protect you against COVID-19. Please call 513-232-8100 option 2 or visit your patient portal to schedule your appointment today!
In a very short amount of time all of our current COVID vaccine appointments for this age group have been filled. We had previously ordered additional vaccines and are awaiting more information on our next delivery date. We will open additional dates and times for your child to receive their vaccines as soon as we know our vaccines will be back in stock. We will communicate that information to you as soon as possible. If you have any questions in the interim, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.
We believe the COVID-19 vaccine is an important part in protecting ourselves and others during the pandemic. At this time we are excited to announce that we have received a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccines for patients 5 to 11 years of age, and it has recently been approved for emergency use by the FDA and CDC!
Interested in getting scheduled? Schedule online via the Patient Portal or call our team today (513) 232-8100option 2 then press 2 again). If you schedule through the patient portal, please schedule your child for 2 appointments 21 days apart for their first and second doses.
Additional important information to know regarding our COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics:
Where to go: Once in our parking lots, look for yellow signs dedicated to COVID Vaccine parking and park at one of those spaces. If someone does not come to you, call our team at 513-232-8100option 7 to let us know you have arrived. We will then direct you into the designated location or provide your vaccine from the comfort of your vehicle as long as weather permits. We may ask that you and your child enter our facilities if cold or inclement weather is an issue.
How to Dress: Make sure those receiving the vaccine have one arm free of clothing. The best option is a sleeveless or loose short sleeved shirt.
Observation: Based upon medical history, you will be asked to wait in your vehicle between 15-30 minutes after receiving the vaccine to monitor for side effects.
Feeling Ill?: If the patient starts to feel ill prior to their appointment, please call and speak to a nurse to determine if we should re-schedule.
Screening Questions: We are required to ask specific screening questions for patients receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. These can be completed at the time of your arrival or through Phreesia’s pre-visit check-in that will be sent to you via email and/or text.
We look forward to providing your 5-11 year old child with their COVID-19 vaccine soon!
The COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Pfizer is currently seeking Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for patients between the ages of 5 to 11 years, but this is not yet approved. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s vaccine advisory committee is scheduled to meet and make a possible determination later in October. The vaccine the 5 to 11 years age group that is awaiting federal authorization and has gone through clinical trials is a different concentration than the adult version. Children also will receive a different dose.
In an effort to provide the best care to your children, we are currently working to receive these vaccines as soon as they become available. Once we know more, we will also set up times for your child to be scheduled for their vaccine. Interested in having your patient between the ages of 5-11 be included on our COVID vaccine waitlist? You may do so by clicking the link in the top portion of this email communication.
For more information regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, we have linked a few additional resources below:
For any additional questions, you can reach out to our triage team at 513-232-8100 or submit your non-urgent question through our patient portal. We also are continuing to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to patients 12 years of age and older. We will continue to provide updates on the COVID-19 vaccine as they become available on our website, Facebook, and Instagram accounts.
We are aware of the ongoing evaluation of the COVID-19 vaccine safety data, especially as it relates to the confirmed cases of myocarditis (inflammation of the middle layer of the heart wall) in people ages 12 to 29.
As of June 11th, the CDC had confirmed 323 of these cases approximately 1 week after one of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer or Moderna were received. Most of these cases were reported after the second dose and primarily in males.
Recent Vaccine Data
The data indicates there is a “likely association” between the mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. However, in an article (linked below) by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), they recently stated, “’The facts are clear: this is an extremely rare side effect, and only an exceedingly small number of people will experience it after vaccination,’ health officials and medical organizations said in a statement last Wednesday. ‘Importantly, for the young people who do, most cases are mild, and individuals recover often on their own or with minimal treatment. In addition, we know that myocarditis and pericarditis are much more common if you get COVID-19, and the risks to the heart from COVID-19 infection can be more severe.’”
As of the most recent data and health official feedback, it has been indicated that the benefits of vaccination still far outweigh the risks of myocarditis/pericarditis. The CDC, Department of Health and Human Services, and the American Academy of Pediatrics all continue to support the need for vaccination, even in teen males.
Anderson Hills Pediatrics is also in support of this information and continues to provide the Pfizer vaccine to patients 12 years of age or older.
COVID Vaccine Clinic
Our next vaccine clinics are on July 8th and 9th at our Amelia location from 2:00-4:00PM. We welcome your call to get your child/children scheduled for their vaccine at 513-232-8100.
Have more questions about the COVID vaccine? Contact our office today!
We want to ensure that our patients remain well informed when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccine. If you have more questions about how you and your family can stay safe during the pandemic, call our pediatric office at (513) 232-8100 today!
We have begun providing the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to our patients that are 12 years of age and older. Since the Emergency Use Authorization was approved for younger ages, we have been asked many questions related to the science and safety of the COVID-19 vaccine. Healthy Children, the parenting resource from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has a great article to help answer some of your top questions.
Additionally, the Ohio Department of Health has put together a FAQ document to help assist parents with COVID-19 vaccine-related questions. We are linking this document for your reference as well.
Our team is available to answer any additional questions you may have or help you to schedule your child for their vaccine. You may do so by calling our office at (513) 232-8100 or visiting your patient portal. We hope you see you soon!
The authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for ages 12 and older is a vital step in bringing lifesaving vaccines to children and adolescents. With this recent news, we are excited to be able to provide your child/children with the COVID vaccine in one of our upcoming vaccine clinics.
Summarized below are clinic dates/times that are currently available for scheduling. To ensure all patients receive their second doses timely and to ensure we use our supplies appropriately, we are scheduling patients for their first and second dose as outlined in the clinics below. There is no flexibility to the dates/times.
Clinic 1:
First Dose on 5/20/21
Second Dose on 6/10/21
Available Times: 2:00-5:00PM
Location: Amelia Office
Clinic 2:
First Dose on 5/21/21
Second Dose on 6/11/21
Available Times: 2:00-5:00PM
Location: Amelia Office
Clinic 3:
First Dose on 5/22/21
Second Dose on 6/12/21
Available Times: 9:00-12:00pm
Location: Anderson Office
Clinic 4:
First Dose on 5/28/21
Second Dose on 6/18/21
Available Times: 2:00-5:00 PM
Location: Amelia Office
Clinic 5:
First Dose on 5/29/21
Second Dose on 6/19/21
Available Times: 9:00-12:00pm
Location: Anderson Office
Clinic 6:
First Dose on 6/4/21
Second Dose on 6/25/21
Available Times: 2:00-5:00PM
Location: Amelia Office
Clinic 7:
First Dose on 6/5/21
Second Dose on 6/26/21
Available Times: 9:00-12:00pm
Location: Anderson Office
Interested in getting scheduled? Call our team today at 513-232-8100 option 2 then press 2 again or schedule through your patient portal. Note: If you are scheduling on the portal, please only schedule for your first dose based upon the dates listed above. Our team will automatically schedule you/your child for the second dose.
What to Expect during your Visit:
Our COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics will work very similarly to how our Flu Clinics operated in 2020.
Where to go: Once in our parking lots, look for yellow signs dedicated to Covid Vaccine parking and park at one of those spaces. If someone does not come to you, call our team at 513-232-8100 option 7 to let us know you have arrived. We will then direct you into the designated location or provide your vaccine from the comfort of your vehicle.
How to Dress: Make sure those receiving the vaccine have one arm free of clothing. The best clothing is sleeveless or loose short sleeved shirt. Observation: Based upon medical history, you will be asked to wait in your vehicle between 15-30 minutes after receiving the vaccine to monitor for side effects.
COVID-19 Vaccines with Other Vaccines: It is now okay to receive other vaccines at the same time as the Covid vaccine if necessary.
Screening Questions: We are required to ask specific screening questions for patients receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. These will be sent to you through Phreesia prior to or upon arrival to your visit.
Additional Resources Related to the COVID-19 Vaccine:
We look forward to providing you/ your child with your COVID-19 vaccine soon!
Have more questions? Contact our office today!
We want to ensure that our patients remain well informed when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccome. If you have more questions about how you and your family can stay safe during the pandemic, call our pediatric office at (513) 232-8100 today!
