The University of Kentucky is a site for KidCOVE, a national trial by Moderna to test the safety and effectiveness of its COVID-19 vaccine in children. The vaccine, called mRNA-1273, may protect young children 6 months to those under 12 years of age from getting sick if they come into contact with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. 

For the current phase of the study, researchers are enrolling children aged 6 months to under 2 years of age into the study beginning at the end of October. Parents or guardians interested in enrolling their child in the study can visit UK’s website at www.StopCOVIDKy.com, where they can answer a confidential pre-screening survey to help determine if a child qualifies. If you previously filled out the prescreening survey this summer, you don’t need to do so again. Please note that answering the survey does not obligate you or your child to participate.

A vaccine that prevents COVID-19 disease and SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission among children will be a crucial public health tool in curbing the pandemic. Using its vaccine currently given to adults, Moderna has committed to researching a safe and effective vaccine to protect people of all backgrounds and ages, including children less than 12 years of age. This pediatric research study will define an age-appropriate dose, test the vaccine’s effectiveness, and monitor any potential side effects in children, collecting information to ensure safe use.