COVID-19 Vaccines

This webpage includes the most up-to-date information as of March 12, 2021.

Benefits of COVID-19 Vaccines

Some people may be concerned about getting the COVID-19 vaccine. More COVID-19 vaccines are being developed as quickly as possible. Routine steps stayed in place to ensure the safety of any vaccine that is authorized or approved for use. Safety is a top priority, and there are many reasons to get vaccinated. Below is important information about the benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine. Getting the vaccine helps keep you and your family safe from COVID-19.

For the most up-to-date information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits.html  

Can a COVID-19 vaccine make me sick with COVID-19?

No. None of the COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19. A COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccination will help keep you from getting COVID-19

All COVID-19 vaccines currently available are shown to be effective at preventing COVID-19.

All COVID-19 vaccines in the process of being made are being carefully checked. They will be approved only if they make it a lot less likely you’ll get COVID-19.

Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you. Especially people at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccination is a safer way to help build protection

COVID-19 can have serious, life-threatening problems. There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you. If you get sick, you could spread the disease to friends, family, and others around you.

COVID-19 vaccination will be an important tool to help stop the pandemic

Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of getting the virus. They also help stop the virus from spreading to others. But, these ways alone are not enough. Vaccines work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you get it.

Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination

For the most up-to-date information visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/facts.html

What are some of the most common side effects after getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

After being vaccinated, you may have some side effects. Side effects are normal signs your body is building protection. The most common side effects are pain and swelling in the arm where you got the shot. Also, you may have fever, chills, tiredness, and headache. They should go away in a few days.

If I am pregnant, can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes. If you are pregnant, you may choose to be vaccinated when it’s available to you. Currently, no evidence of antibodies (immune system) formed from COVID-19 vaccination cause any problem with pregnancy. If you have questions about getting vaccinated, talk with your doctor. They may help you make an informed decision.

How long does protection from a COVID-19 vaccine last?

We don’t know how long protection lasts for those who get the vaccine. We do know COVID-19 has caused serious illness and death. If you get COVID-19, you risk giving it to loved ones who may get very sick. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer choice.

Do I need to wear a mask and social distance with others if I have gotten 2 doses of the vaccines?

Yes. To protect yourself and others, do the following:

  • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from others
  • Avoid crowds
  • Avoid poorly ventilated spaces
  • Wash your hands often

We don’t yet know whether getting a COVID-19 vaccine will prevent you from spreading the virus that causes COVID-19.

If I have already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I need to get vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes, you should be vaccinated regardless of already having COVID-19. Experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Even if you have already recovered from COVID-19, you could get it again.

Who is paying for the COVID-19 Vaccines?

The federal government is providing the vaccine, for free, to people living in the United States. Doctors can be reimbursed for vaccine fees by insurance companies. No one can be denied a vaccine if they cannot pay a vaccine fee.

How many shots of the COVID-19 vaccine are needed?

Two COVID-19 vaccines require 2 shots to get the most protection. The timing between your first and second shot depends on which vaccine you received.

Pfizer-BioNTech doses should be given 3 weeks (21 days) apart

Moderna doses should be given 1 month (28 days) apart

Try to get your second shot as close to the recommended time as possible. Your second shot may be given up to 6 weeks (42 days) after the first dose. You should not get the second dose earlier than the recommended interval.

If I have an underlying condition, can I get a COVID vaccine?

People with underlying medical conditions can receive the COVID-19 vaccine as long as they are not allergic to the vaccine or the ingredients. Getting the vaccine is important. Especially for adults with medical conditions. Some are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

Can I get vaccinated against COVID-19 while I am currently sick with COVID-19?

No. People with COVID-19 who have symptoms should wait to be vaccinated. They should wait until they have recovered from their illness. They should also wait until they no longer need to isolate themselves from being sick. People without symptoms should wait until they meet the criteria before getting vaccinated. This applies to people who get COVID-19 before getting their second dose of vaccine.

 

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

Informational Videos

Thank you California Vaccination Videos 

History of Vaccination