Whitmer orders Michigan to prep for vaccinating kids ages 5-11

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has directed the state to expedite the ordering of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for kids ages 5-11 so that it will be quickly available if the federal government gives it the green light.

Her directive Tuesday came the same day an advisory committee to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration began deliberating whether there is enough evidence that the shot is safe and effective for the age group.

Michigan has 825,000 5- to 11-year-olds.

The governor called the pending authorization a "game-changer" that will protect kids as they attend school, participate in extracurricular activities, and see friends and family.