FEMA Vaccine Site In Newark Serving NJ Children Ages 12 And Up

NEWARK, NJ — The largest COVID-19 vaccine site in New Jersey will be open for walk-in appointments until at least June, and it’s giving shots to any Garden State resident 12 and older.

A FEMA-backed center located on the campus of the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark is administering the Pfizer version, the only vaccine currently approved for people under 18. Two shots are required, spaced about three weeks apart.

• See related article: Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Expanded To U.S. Children 12 And Older

Despite previous plans to switch to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the Newark site will continue to offer the Pfizer version moving forward, a FEMA spokesperson told Patch on Thursday.

In line with recommendations from U.S. federal regulators, the Newark center will be providing Pfizer vaccinations to children 12 and up. New Jersey residents 12 to 17-years-old must have a parent or guardian present.

The center, located at 56 Lock Street, is accepting walk-ins until May 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., “as long as the supply is available,” FEMA stated.

People should call 855-568-0545 or visit covidvaccine.nj.gov for pre-registration.

Vaccines are provided directly from the federal government, above and beyond the state's regular allocations, officials said. The Newark site has the capacity to give up to 6,000 doses per day.

The center is being supported by the federal government, in partnership with the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, the New Jersey Department of Health, Essex County and the City of Newark.

• See related article: NJ Transit Offers Free Bus, Train Rides To COVID Vaccine Sites

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