An FDA study of over 3 million children confirmed that COVID-19 vaccines are safe for children and adolescents aged 5 to 17. The study found a slight increase in myocarditis risk in older children the week after vaccination, primarily in boys aged 12 to 17. Anti-vaccine sites falsely claim that the study proves vaccines are unsafe for children.
Recommendation: The widespread nature of the misinformation elevates its risk. Debunking messaging may emphasize that, of the 153 myocarditis and pericarditis cases reported in older children, most resolved quickly, and none were fatal. No safety concerns were identified for children under 12. Like previous studies, this study confirms that serious risks from COVID-19 vaccination are extremely rare. Emphasizing that the risk of heart issues is significantly higher in every age group after COVID-19 infection than after vaccination is recommended. Fact Checking Source(s): CIDRAP, Forbes