Wisconsin state health officials now recommend COVID-19 vaccines for kids as young as 6 months

MILWAUKEE (CBS) -- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is now recommending COVID-19 vaccines for the youngest population.

Tuesday, DHS officials announced they are supporting CDC recommendations that kids who are six months old to five years old should get a COVID shot. "We know many parents and guardians have been waiting for their youngest children to become eligible," said Karen Timberlake, DHS secretary-designee.

The Pfizer vaccine is now recommended for everyone six months of age and older and the Moderna vaccine is recommended for children six months through five years of age, and for adults 18 and older.

Additional vaccine doses continue to arrive in Wisconsin this week -- 48,000 doses were ordered and will be distributed to health facilities. 

"Getting your child vaccinated and boosted not only protects them but also family, friends, and loved ones around them," said Timberlake.

Most pharmacies are already taking appointments for young kids. Availability is dependent on location and when vaccine shipments arrive.

Health experts are urging parents not to wait to make an appointment. Reach out to your local pharmacy if you have questions.