Nearly 1 million kids 5–11 on track for first week COVID vaccine

• Each of the shots administered to kids 5–11 will be about one-third of the size of the adult dose. The doses will be spaced three weeks apart.
• NPR was first to report the 900,000 figure.

By the numbers: About 28 million children 5–11 are eligible to get vaccinated, White House COVID-19 response coordinator Jeff Zients said Wednesday.

• At least 1.9 million 5–11 year-olds have had COVID-19, the CDC said last week.

What they're saying: "As we have discussed, our program for kids ages 5–11 is hitting full strength this week," a White House official said.

• "Parents and families across the country are breathing giant sighs of relief. And we are just getting started."

The big picture: There are approximately 20,000 pharmacies, clinics, hospitals and physicians' offices administering the vaccine, and the White House said there are already 700,000 future appointments scheduled through pharmacies alone.

• The White House said it is working with governors, health care providers and local leaders to "build on this progress."
• Minnesota has set up 1,100 vaccination sites, including at the Mall of America, which can vaccinate 1,500 kids a day.
• There are more than 1,000 clinics planned in schools, "including early morning hours before the workday and school day."
• "Nationwide, 114 children’s hospitals are now offering vaccinations and engaging their communities — with many hosting family-friendly vaccination events, featuring stickers, pets and stuffed animals," the White House added.