Bergen New Bridge Now Vaccinating Kids 12 And Up

PARAMUS, NJ — A Paramus boy named Jack, 12, became the youngest patient to receive a COVID-19 vaccination at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center on Thursday.

Children 12 and older are eligible for a Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at the Paramus clinic starting this week, Bergen County officials announced.

Starting with Jack on Thursday morning, county officials said they'll be reserving Pfizer shots for residents between the ages of 12 and 17. This is the first time the vaccine clinic at New Bridge in Paramus has carried the Pfizer vaccine.

"This morning we took another step towards the light at the end of the tunnel," said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. "Vaccinating children will increase the level of immunity in our communities across the county, helping prevent the spread, further lowering COVID-19 cases. I strongly encourage all residents to do their part by getting the vaccine as soon as they are eligible."

The move comes one day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention panel approved the emergency-use authorization of Pfizer's vaccine for kids aged 12-15.

"Today we started the next essential phase of our pandemic emergence efforts as we began vaccinating children as young as 12," said Bergen New Bridge President and CEO Deb Visconi.

"We are proud to partner with the County of Bergen to play a part in protecting our school age children, helping them get back to school, go to camp, enjoy their summer and enjoy being kids again."

Appointments are still available at the Paramus clinic, which also began taking walk-ins recently. Walk-in appointments are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Everyone seeking a vaccine must show proof of age, and kids should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, county officials said.