COVID-19 (coronavirus)
If nothing else, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has brought into sharp focus the value of ongoing preventive medicine, something that has been MISSION CENTRAL for pediatricians forever.
We encourage you to stay up-to-date on your child's well visits - submit an online request for a future well visit today (we usually book well visits 3 months in advance).
VACCINATION:
Of all public health interventions that have been introduced over the past century, vaccination has made the most impact in saving lives. Sadly, pandemics in the past have often affected children MORE than other age groups, and the value of vaccinations cannot be overstated. COVID vaccines are available at Annapolis Pediatrics offices (currently only for ages 12+ in-office) and we are rolling out separate clinic dates for ages 5-11 years - visit the "Vaccinations" tab below for information.
Stay tuned to our website, emails and social media for updates on the COVID vaccine for ages 5-11.
TESTING:
Visit the "testing" tab below for Annapolis Pediatrics' patient testing information, including other local testing locations.
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Yes, You’ll Want to Vaccinate Your Kids Against COVID. An Expert Explains Why
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November 3rd, 2021 - Governor Hogan Announces Authorization of COVID-19 Vaccines for 5- to 11-Year-Olds, Encourages Parents With Concerns To Talk To Pediatricians
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Answers to Your Questions About Covid Vaccines and Kids
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Does my unvaccinated child still have to wear a mask when the rest of the family doesn't?
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May 10th, 2021 - FDA Authorizes Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for Emergency Use in Adolescents in Another Important Action in Fight Against Pandemic
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April 1st, 2021 - Governor Hogan Announces COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration For All Marylanders 16 And Older
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COVID-19 Additional/Third Dose Vaccine Update - Updated 11/29/21
It is now recommended that all those age 18 and older who completed an initial series of any COVID-19 vaccine receive a booster dose: For those who received the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine, this booster dose should be at least 6 months after completing the initial series. For those who received the Johnson&Johnson’s Janssen vaccine, the booster dose should be at least 2 months after the initial vaccine. Booster doses can be with any COVID-19 vaccine available. We expect to have an ongoing supply of some vaccine, and are ready to provide it to our patients.
In addition, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is now recommending that children ages 12-17 with moderately to severely compromised immune systems receive an additional (third) dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. This third dose can be given after at least 28 days since the initial 2-dose series was completed. Currently we are able to provide Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in our offices. This additional dose for children ages 12-17 only applies to patients who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
Children ages 12-17 who need this additional protection include those who have:
- Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
- Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
- Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
- Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
- Advanced or untreated HIV infection
- Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response
Please call our office and speak to your provider if you have any questions about whether this applies to your child. It is preferred, but not required to receive the same brand of vaccine for this third booster. Speak to your provider about which vaccine is appropriate for your child.
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Annapolis Pediatrics COVID Vaccine Update for Ages 5-11 - as of 11/19/21
The Pfizer COVID vaccine was authorized by the CDC for children ages 5-11 on November 3rd.
We have received another shipment of COVID vaccines for the 5-11 year old age group, and our next vaccine clinic will be in-office in Annapolis on Sunday, 11/21 from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM.
Click HERE to register for this clinic.*
*COVID vaccination is a 2 shot series, each given 21 days apart. By registering for this clinic, you will also receive a registration link for your child’s 2nd vaccine on Monday, 12/13 from 2:00 PM-5:00 PM in Annapolis.
We will have more 5-11 vaccine options in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to our emails, website and social media for updates.
**If you are eager to get your child vaccinated right away and are unable to get in for one of our clinics, we encourage you to get your child's vaccine wherever you can.
Anne Arundel County Department of Health COVID vaccine options are located directly HERE.
We have additional state and county vaccination information on our COVID Information page, as well as additional information about COVID-19, testing, interviews with our providers and more.
A few reminders:
- We are dependent on the Anne Arundel County Health Department for our shipment of vials and supplies. The current Pfizer vaccine that we have is for ages 12 and up only and is a different concentration. The vials are not interchangeable.
- We will notify all families when we have receive more vaccines and are ready to administer it in the following ways:
- Updating our website
- Sending email announcements
- Posting on social media
- Please do not put in appointment requests for COVID vaccinations for 5-11 year olds. We are creating separate ways to schedule for this age group.
- Please do not call our office to inquire about COVID vaccinations for ages 5-11. Our staff is busy answering phone calls and we want to keep our phone lines available for families that have urgent medical needs.
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Dr. Edwards and Dr. Turner talk "COVID 5-11 Vaccinations and Flu" with Chesapeake Family Life - on 10/29/21
Watch the live interview on our Facebook page or on Chesapeake Family Life's website HERE.
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Returning Our Children Safely to School
READ HERE for Annapolis Pediatrics' recommendations and advice for sending our children safely to school this fall.
And a video from Dr. Edwards:
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COVID Vaccine Myths: Busted!
Dr. Edwards and Dr. Turner talk about COVID vaccine myths vs. facts in their latest Pediatrician Chat.
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COVID-19 Sports Clearance Guide
A video from our Medical Director on the importance of activity, and our COVID-19 sports clearance guide.
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KIDS, COVID & VACCINATIONS
An Interview with Dr. Edwards, Dr. Turner and Chesapeake Family Life. Recorded 6.11.21
WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE.
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Everywhere you turn, there is information about the upcoming COVID-19 vaccines. At Annapolis Pediatrics, we want to make sure that you are getting the most accurate, scientific, evidence-based answers to all of your questions.
Annapolis Pediatrics’ Dr. Margaret Turner interviewed Dr. James Campbell from the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Maryland Center for Vaccine Development to get the details on the vaccine rollout and what we should know as parents.
Watch the full interview here:
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Were you or your children directly exposed to someone with a positive COVID-19 test? Not sure if and how long you should be quarantining?
Here is the most recent Maryland Department of Health quarantine guidance for asymptomatic individuals in alignment with the CDC:
1) With Negative Diagnostic Test Results:
After Day 7 with a Negative Test: When diagnostic testing resources are sufficient and available, quarantine can end after Day 7:
a) If no symptoms were reported during daily monitoring; AND
b) if a diagnostic specimen tests negative
2) Without Test Results:*
After Day 10 Without a Test: Quarantine can end after Day 10 without testing if no symptoms have been reported during daily monitoring.
*Please quarantine within these guidelines whether or not you are contacted by a contact tracer.
3) For fully vaccinated people who have a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19:
Get tested 3-5 days after exposure.
Wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until a negative test result is received.
*Updated 8.3.21
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Practice the 3 W’s wherever you go – Watch your distance, Wear your mask, Wash your hands.
The Pfizer COVID vaccine was authorized by the CDC for children ages 5-11 on November 3rd. We have received another shipment of COVID vaccines for the 5-11 year old age group, and our next vaccine clinic will be in-office in Annapolis on Sunday, 11/21 from 9:00 AM-12:00 PM. Click HERE to register for this clinic.* *COVID vaccination is a 2 shot series, each given 21 days apart. By registering for this clinic, you will also receive a registration link for your child’s 2nd vaccine on Monday, 12/13 from 2:00 PM-5:00 PM in Annapolis. We will have more 5-11 vaccine options in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to our emails, website and social media for updates. *If you are eager to get your child vaccinated right away and are unable to get in for one of our clinics, we encourage you to get your child's vaccine wherever you can. Anne Arundel County Department of Health COVID vaccine options are located directly HERE. We have additional state and county vaccination information on our COVID Information page, as well as additional information about COVID-19, testing, interviews with our providers and more. Stay tuned to our website, emails and social media for updates on when we receive more of the Pfizer vaccine for ages 5-11. A few things to keep in mind when making your 5+ child's vaccine appointment: Additional/Third Dose Vaccine Recommendation: (Updated 11/29/21) It is now recommended that all those age 18 and older who completed an initial series of any COVID-19 vaccine receive a booster dose: For those who received the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine, this booster dose should be at least 6 months after completing the initial series. For those who received the Johnson&Johnson’s Janssen vaccine, the booster dose should be at least 2 months after the initial vaccine. Booster doses can be with any COVID-19 vaccine available. We expect to have an ongoing supply of some vaccine, and are ready to provide it to our patients. In addition, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is now recommending that children ages 12-17 with moderately to severely compromised immune systems receive an additional (third) dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. This third dose can be given after at least 28 days since the initial 2-dose series was completed. Currently we are able to provide Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in our offices. This additional dose for children ages 12-17 only applies to patients who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Children ages 12-17 who need this additional protection include those who have: Please call our office and speak to your provider if you have any questions about whether this applies to your child. It is preferred, but not required to receive the same brand of vaccine for this third booster. Speak to your provider about which vaccine is appropriate for your child. https://coronavirus.maryland.gov/pages/vaccine https://www.aacounty.org/covidvax Annapolis Pediatrics COVID Vaccine Update for Ages 5-11 - as of 11/19/21
A few reminders:
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COVID-19 Vaccination Locations:
At Annapolis Pediatrics, we have the COVID vaccine available in our offices for our patients 12 and up. Please call our office to schedule your COVID vaccine appointment, or ask for vaccine availability at your upcoming well visit.
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State of Maryland Vaccination Locations:
Anne Arundel County Department of Health Clinics:
Kent County Department of Health:
Please read below as we have made some changes to our COVID testing procedures at Annapolis Pediatrics.
All COVID testing performed at Annapolis Pediatrics will now require a visit with one of our providers.
If you are visiting our COVID Testing Clinic in Edgewater, the provider visit will be conducted virtually after your results come in.
A provider will send you a link via text message when they are ready to review the results with you and assess your symptoms and exposure. The provider will also discuss appropriate quarantine guidelines or provide you with a return to school/daycare clearance and letter. The link will be sent to you approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours after your testing time.
COVID Testing Clinic information:
- Edgewater office
- HOURS:
- Monday-Wednesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Rapid and PCR testing available
- Drive-up - Please remain in your vehicle and park in a parking space as close to the building as possible. Small children should remain in their car seats.
- Only patients with an appointment will be tested. We are unable to accommodate add-on patients at the time of your arrival. We apologize for the inconvenience.
- Please be on-time and call our office if you are unable to make your appointment. There is a high demand for COVID testing currently and if you are unable to keep your appointment, we want to offer it to another patient.
To schedule a testing appointment at Annapolis Pediatrics, click HERE.
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If you do not wish to see a provider and are in need of a COVID test only (i.e. you have returned from travel, need clearance to travel, need a negative test to attend an event, etc.), we will refer you to a local area testing center.
During this exceptionally busy time, we are reserving our in-office appointments for sick patients who need to be physically examined by a provider.
To search and filter a list of Maryland Testing Locations (by location, cost and pediatric testing available), click HERE.
Anne Arundel County Resident Testing Locations:
Maryland Department of Health at 1 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401
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Monday-Friday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
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Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
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Appointments preferred! Call: 410-222-7256 to schedule!
Glen Burnie VEIP station at 721 E. Ordnance Road, Curtis Bay, MD 21226
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Wednesday and Friday: 8:00 AM -12:00 PM
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No appointment needed!
Earleigh Heights Fire Department at 161 Ritchie Hwy, Severna Park, MD 21146
- Opens Mon – Fri 9am – 4pm
- No appointment needed!
First Call Medical Center at 1071 MD-3 #101, Gambrills, MD 21054
- Opens 7 days/week at 8am – 8pm
- No appointment needed!
Queen Anne’s County Resident Testing Locations:
Queen Anne’s County Health Department at 206 N. Commerce Street, Centerville, MD 21617
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Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM (weather permitting- there may be extended/additional hours)
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More information including needed paperwork available here: https://health.maryland.gov/qahealth/
Edwards Pharmacy at 102 S. Commerce Street, Centerville, MD 21617
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Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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Appointment required: go to https://www.doineedacovid19test.com/Centreville_MD_906.html to schedule!
Nutrition:
For the rest of the year, children can receive three FREE meals a day at the county links below.
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Free meals available from 42 rec centers in Baltimore
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Call 311 for locations and to schedule pickup time
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Mental Health:
Children:
Teens:
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Teens & COVID-19: Challenges and Opportunities During the Outbreak
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How Teenagers Can Protect their Mental Health During Coronavirus
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Education and Entertainment:
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Stay at Home Resource List (with over 30 links!)
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Anne Arundel County Public Library – ebooks, movies, music, educational resources and more.
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Queen Anne’s County Public Library – ebooks, educational and language resources, and tons more.
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Sesame Street Health Emergencies – Talking to Kids About COVID-19, hand washing, printable activities, videos and more.
Maryland COVID-19 Data Dashboard
When Might Your Children Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Masking Up with Kids: Tips and Tricks
Improve How Your Mask Protects You
Your questions about coronavirus vaccines, answered: What you need to know.
At Annapolis Pediatrics, we have hosted a variety of virtual events during the COVID-19 pandemic with our providers and other experts. Watch/listen to the specific events below:
The Good, The Bad and the Ugly. A Survival Guide for Parents of 2-5 Years (during COVID)
Supporting School and Middle School Aged Children During COVID-19
Supporting Teens Through Quarantine
Social and Emotional Development: Mental Health in a COVID World