CNY 9-year-old in Covid-19 vaccine trial gets 1st shot: I want to help out other kids – syracuse.com

CICERO, NY When Walker Clary, 9. saw a poster at his doctors office saying he could sign up for the Covid-19 vaccine trials for younger kids, he immediately wanted to volunteer.

His older brother, Jack, 14, had participated in the earlier trials last year, and Walker said he wanted to help, too.

I want to help out other kids,' said Walker, who will be in fourth grade in the fall at Cicero Elementary School. And its exciting to be one of the first my age to get the shot.

Walker is enrolled in whats called the KidCOVE research Covid-19 vaccine study conducted by Moderna for kids ages 6 months to 11 years. Walker is one of about 7,000 participants in the trial, according to Moderna.

The trial is staggered and is starting with children between the ages of 6 years to less than 12 years old. Participants have to be in good health and never contracted Covid-19.

Walker got his shot at Child Health Care Associates, an Upstate University Hospital study, in Kirkville Wednesday, said his dad, Bob Clary. Clary said Walkers arm was sore and he had trouble sleeping last night. Clary said that makes him think his son got the actual vaccine rather than the placebo.

He will get his second shot after 28 days.

Clary said the trial is well-organized, and theres an app to record side effects and a number he can call with questions or concerns.

Despite his arm, Walker said hes not concerned. His brother, 12-year-old sister Stella and parents all are vaccinated.

Im not really worried about it at all,' he said. I dont want to get Covid.

Walker said he hopes he can reassure other kids who are hesitant to get the vaccine.

His father said he was cautious about getting the vaccine at first until he educated himself on it. He said his family believes in the vaccine. There is so much misinformation out there that he hopes his sons experience will convince others.

We trust in the science of the vaccines,' he said. We are proud of Walker for volunteering.

Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime at 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com

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CNY 9-year-old in Covid-19 vaccine trial gets 1st shot: I want to help out other kids - syracuse.com