COVID-19 Vaccination for Toddlers: Insights on Moderna and China Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccine

Hello, doctor.
My child is currently two years and seven months old and is in mainland China.
Would you recommend getting vaccinated there before returning to Taiwan, or should we get the Moderna vaccine in Taiwan, or not vaccinate at all? My child has been hospitalized for pneumonia due to respiratory infections at two and a half years and one year old.
Although fully recovered, could this lead to weaker lungs and increase the risk of severe illness? What is your opinion on vaccines in mainland China and the pros and cons of administering the Moderna vaccine to young children? Thank you very much!

Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/27

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

The COVID-19 vaccines from mainland China have not been legally granted emergency authorization in Taiwan, and the assessment of their efficacy is not very clear.
Therefore, we do not have a thorough understanding of the COVID-19 vaccines produced in mainland China.
However, the COVID-19 vaccines currently used in Taiwan have been in use for a considerable amount of time both internationally and locally, and their effectiveness and side effects are relatively well understood.
Thus, if vaccination is to be considered, it is still recommended to use the COVID-19 vaccines currently available in Taiwan.
Individuals who have had pneumonia do not have a higher chance of developing severe COVID-19.
As for whether children should receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, I believe the benefits and risks are roughly equal, and it may ultimately require parents to assess and make their own decisions.

Reply Date: 2022/11/27

More Info

When considering COVID-19 vaccination for toddlers, particularly in the context of your child's medical history and the available vaccines in different regions, there are several important factors to weigh.
Firstly, it's essential to understand the current recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccination for young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities recommend that children aged 6 months and older receive COVID-19 vaccinations. The Moderna vaccine has been authorized for use in children aged 6 months and older, and it has been shown to be effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death due to COVID-19.

Given your child's history of respiratory infections leading to pneumonia, it is understandable to be concerned about their vulnerability to severe COVID-19 illness. Children with a history of respiratory issues may be at a higher risk for complications from COVID-19, making vaccination an important consideration. Vaccination can help bolster their immune response and potentially reduce the risk of severe outcomes if they contract the virus.

Regarding the vaccines available in China, it is important to note that the vaccines used there, such as Sinovac and Sinopharm, have been widely administered and have shown efficacy in preventing COVID-19. However, the data on their effectiveness in younger populations, particularly toddlers, may not be as robust as that for the mRNA vaccines like Moderna. The mRNA vaccines have been shown to elicit a strong immune response and have been extensively studied in various age groups, including young children.

If you are considering whether to vaccinate your child in China or wait until returning to Taiwan for the Moderna vaccine, here are some points to consider:
1. Availability and Access: Check the availability of vaccines in both locations. If the Moderna vaccine is readily available in Taiwan and you have plans to return soon, it may be worth waiting for that option.

2. Efficacy and Safety: The Moderna vaccine has a strong safety profile and has been shown to be effective in preventing COVID-19 in children. If you have concerns about the vaccines available in China, it may be prudent to opt for the Moderna vaccine once you return to Taiwan.

3. Health Status: Given your child's history of respiratory infections, consulting with a pediatrician or a specialist in infectious diseases would be beneficial. They can provide personalized advice based on your child's health status and history.

4. Timing: If your child is currently eligible for vaccination in China and you are not planning to return to Taiwan soon, it may be advisable to proceed with vaccination there. Delaying vaccination could leave your child vulnerable to COVID-19, especially in light of their previous respiratory issues.

5. Monitoring for Side Effects: As with any vaccine, monitoring for side effects post-vaccination is crucial. Common side effects are generally mild and include soreness at the injection site, fatigue, and mild fever. Serious side effects are rare but should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, vaccination against COVID-19 is an important step in protecting your child, especially given their medical history. Weighing the options between the vaccines available in China and the Moderna vaccine in Taiwan should be based on availability, efficacy, safety, and your child's health needs. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide further clarity and help you make the best decision for your child's health.

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