COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ

In the coming months, thousands in our region will be given the opportunity to be vaccinated for COVID-19.

Many may have questions about the vaccine. That’s to be expected. This page is designed to provide answers to your questions from trusted sources. We’ve tried to make this a comprehensive resource—for an overview, read our fact sheet in English, Spanish or French. Arabic and Nepali versions coming soon. 

Interact for Health’s President and CEO O’dell Moreno Owens, M.D., M.P.H., led a virtual community forum to answer general questions about the COVID-19 vaccine on Feb. 24, 2021. Participants can view a replay of the event on Facebook.

The information is not intended to be individual medical advice. If you have questions that are specific to your situation, it’s best to contact your health care provider.

If you have a general question that’s not addressed here, please share it with us by emailing webmaster@interactforhealth.org.

Last updated:  March 1, 2021

Safety/Side Effects

• What are the benefits of getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

  Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-vaccine/art-20484859

  COVID-19 can cause severe medical complications and lead to death in some people. There is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you. If you get COVID-19, you could spread the disease to family, friends and others around you. 

  Getting a COVID-19 vaccine can help protect you by creating an antibody response in your body without your having to become sick with COVID-19.

  A COVID-19 vaccine might prevent you from getting COVID-19. Or, if you get COVID-19, the vaccine might keep you from becoming seriously ill or from developing serious complications.

  Getting vaccinated also might help protect people around you from COVID-19, particularly people at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

• How will we know if a COVID-19 vaccine is safe?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  The U.S. has a long history of assuring vaccines are safe through the use of specific, detailed, and time-tested protocols. Before any new vaccine is brought to market, it has been given to thousands of people under stringent monitoring for safety. Sometimes, very rare side effects are recognized only after the vaccine is licensed because they occur so infrequently, but such side effects are very rare and must be weighed against the good the vaccine will do.

• How is the process for approving a vaccine moving so quickly?

  Source: https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/vaccines/vaccines-faq

  Traditionally, it has taken many years to develop a vaccine, confirm its safety and efficacy, and manufacture the vaccine in sufficient quantities for public use. This timeline is substantially shortened for COVID-19 vaccines in development. There are several ways this has been made possible. First, some clinical trials have combined phases 1 and 2 to assess safety and the immune responses. Second, because of the high number of new cases of COVID-19 in many places, differences in disease risk between those who received the viral vaccine and those who received the placebo or comparison vaccine can be measured more quickly than in the absence of a pandemic. Third, the United States government and others have heavily invested in building the manufacturing capacity to produce large numbers of vaccine doses before the findings of the phase 3 trials are available. Typically, vaccine manufacturers wait until the phase 3 trial is completed and shows safety and efficacy before making such a large investment in manufacturing capacity. None of these factors that contribute to the accelerated development of a vaccine for COVID-19 imply that safety, scientific or ethical integrity are compromised, or that short-cuts have been made.

• What kind of reaction will I have to vaccine?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  Severe side effects for the COVID-19 vaccine are extremely rare. When minor side effects occur, they are a normal sign your body is building protection to the virus, and most go away within a few days. These include soreness in the arm, fatigue, headache or a slight fever that lasts a day or two. If you have questions about whether the vaccine is safe for you, you should talk to your health care provider.

• What is the risk of having an adverse reaction to the vaccine?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq

  The risk of a medically significant adverse reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine is extremely low and the CDC and FDA are closely monitoring the safety of all approved vaccines. It’s important to distinguish between mild and expected reactions, like some soreness in the arm, fatigue, headache or a slight fever that lasts a day or two, and medically significant reactions, which are very rare. Through early January, cases of anaphylaxis (an allergic reaction) were occurring about 5.5 times for every 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses.

  If you have a question about whether the vaccine is safe for you, you should talk to your health care provider.

• How long after I get vaccinated will I experience side effects?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

  Allergic reactions, which can be severe, typically happen within 15 minutes of vaccinations. Feelings of light-headedness and/or fainting, which are possible, and also typically occur within 15 minutes of vaccination. For this reason, the CDC recommends that people be observed by health care personnel for 15 minutes after getting vaccinated. Side effects like sore arm, fatigue and headache are most common the day after vaccination, but most often occur 1 to 3 days after vaccination.

• I heard the vaccine can cause paralysis. Is that true?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  There is no definitive link between the vaccine and paralysis. Severe side effects for the COVID-19 vaccine are extremely rare. If you have questions about whether the vaccine is safe for you, you should talk to your health care provider.

• How much testing has there been on people of color?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/ and https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/general-resources/frequently-asked-questions+covid-19-vaccine

  Everyone is susceptible to infection by the coronavirus. Therefore, it’s important to have diversity among participants in clinical trials that measure a potential vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Safety and effectiveness for all groups of people is particularly important for a COVID-19 vaccine because of the virus’s disproportionate impact on people of color, people with underlying medical conditions, and the elderly. A vaccine that is not sufficiently tested in a diverse clinical trial pool could lead to unexpected effects that didn’t appear in a trial with a more general population.

  Approximately 42% of participants in Pfizer BioNTech’s worldwide clinical trials, and 37% of the Moderna study population were from communities of color, which is similar to the diversity of the U.S. at large.

• What is the difference between emergency use authorization and ‘normal’ authorization?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf

  Emergency use authorization is a process by which the FDA can authorize use of a medication or vaccine with less data if the benefit of the vaccine has been shown to outweigh the risk. EUAs can be issued only during a declared emergency, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines issued an EUA will continue to be studied and have additional safety monitoring and informed consent and education associated with them.

• How was it approved without meeting the minimum FDA testing period requirements?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits.html

  COVID-19 vaccines are being developed quickly, routine processes and procedures remain in place to ensure the safety of any vaccine that is authorized or approved for use. Safety is a top priority.

• Are there any pre-existing conditions that would prevent someone from receiving the vaccine?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf

  • Children and adolescents under age 16 are not eligible to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Those under age 19 are not eligible to receive the Moderna vaccine as there are not data on the safety and efficacy in this population.
  • Immunocompromised individuals should talk with their health care provider about the vaccine.
  • Anyone who has a fever or other symptoms may not be able to get the vaccine until their symptoms resolve. This includes those who have symptoms or are positive for COVID-19.
  • People with documented anaphylactic reactions to vaccines and individuals with a known allergy to any of the vaccine components should not be immunized.

• Are there any conditions that would cause someone to delay receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/downloads/pre-vaccination-screening-form.pdf

  In some instances, a person may need to wait to be vaccinated for COVID-19. These include:

  • People who are moderately or acutely ill with something other than COVID-19. People who have mild respiratory symptoms (I.e. head cold, diarrhea) can still be vaccinated. People who are taking antibiotics but are not currently feeling ill can be vaccinated, too.
  • People who have gotten another vaccination within the last 14 days.
  • More specific circumstances should be discussed with your health care provider.

• If someone has a severe reaction to COVID-19 vaccine, does it show that they had the virus in the past?

  Source: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/should-i-get-the-vaccine-if-ive-already-had-covid-19-and-would-my-side-effects-be-worse/

  There’s currently no evidence that having had COVID-19 would make you more or less likely to experience side effects from the vaccine.

• If I get a fever after getting vaccinated for COVID-19, should I stay home?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/post-vaccine-considerations-healthcare-personnel.html

  While fever is a common side effect of COVID-19 vaccination, it can be a sign of another illness. Therefore, people with fever are encouraged to stay home if they can.

• I haven’t had any side effects after the vaccine. Does that mean it's not working?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/well/covid-vaccine-questions.html

  Just as some people experience side effects from medications and some don’t, people have varied reactions to vaccines. While we tend to hear only about the unpleasant reactions after the vaccine, a lot of people experience only mild discomfort or no symptoms at all after getting the shot.

• I heard a nurse say she would not get the vaccine. If health care workers are not getting, why should I?

  Source: https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2020/12/08/health-care-workers-can-decline-a-covid-19-shot-for-now and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  Some health care workers are skeptical about the vaccine. They have concerns about the technology and the speed at which it was developed—the same issues that many in the community wonder about. It’s important to note that all the COVID-19 vaccines being used have gone through rigorous studies to ensure they are as safe as possible. Systems that allow CDC to watch for safety issues are in place across the entire country.

• Are there any side effects that are different between races?

  Source: https://www.fda.gov/media/144434/download

  Clinical trial data for the vaccines did not find specific safety concerns by age, race, ethnicity, chronic health conditions or prior coronavirus infection.

• There have been reports that the vaccine may be related to new cases of Bells Palsey--are there any other long lasting side effects related to the vaccine?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  Severe side effects for the COVID-19 vaccine are extremely rare. When minor side effects occur, they are a normal sign your body is building protection to the virus, and most go away within a few days. There is no definitive link between the vaccine and paralysis, a symptom of Bell’s Palsey. If you have questions about whether the vaccine is safe for you, you should talk to your health care provider.

• If I or someone in my family has a severe reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine, what should we do?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety/allergic-reaction.html and https://www.hrsa.gov/cicp/faq#covid

  If someone has a severe allergic reaction after getting vaccinated, their provider will send a report to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, the national system that collects reports from health care professionals, vaccine manufacturers, and the public about adverse events that happen after vaccination. Reports of adverse events that are unexpected, appear to happen more often than expected, or have unusual patterns are followed up with specific studies.

  Benefits for those who have serious physical injury as a direct result of the COVID-19 vaccine may be available through the federal Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program within one year. Individuals or their family members must make a claim within one year and provide proof that a qualified injury was directly caused by the vaccine.

• How do we know the vaccine is safe long-term?

  Source: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions/

  The safety follow-up for COVID-19 vaccines is essentially the same that it is for all vaccine trials. The expectation for the adult phase 3 trials is 2 years of safety follow-up - longer than for most vaccines during development. It is impossible to know the very long-term safety profile of vaccines that have only been in humans for about 6 months. That said, no vaccines licensed have been found to have an unexpected long-term safety problem.

Supply/Demand

• When will the vaccine become available to the general public (i.e., after front line workers, high risk populations etc. have been vaccinated)?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  Because the initial supplies of any vaccine are limited, we’re starting by vaccinating people with highest risk of contracting the virus and people who are the highest risk of a severe infection, that includes healthcare workers and people living in nursing homes and extended care facilities. As more vaccine becomes available, we will vaccinate people in additional categories. The hope is that most Americans will be able to get the vaccinated by late spring or summer.

• How will I know when it’s my turn to get the vaccine?

  Source: See links below

  Announcements about who can get the vaccine will appear in the news media. Residents can also check their state’s coronavirus vaccine webpages:

  Ohio: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

  Kentucky: https://govstatus.egov.com/ky-covid-vaccine

  Indiana: https://www.coronavirus.in.gov/vaccine/

• How are the vaccines being distributed?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  The distribution process for the COVID-19 vaccine prioritizes people at the highest risk of contracting the virus and people who are the highest risk of a severe infection, including health care workers and people who live in nursing homes and extended care facilities.

  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has issued guidelines that recommend prioritizing health care personnel, residents of long-term care facilities during the first phase of vaccination administration. The second phase recommends vaccination for adults over 75 and essential frontline workers including firefighters and police and corrections officers; food and agricultural workers; public transit workers; teachers, school support staff, and childcare workers. The federal government allocates doses of approved vaccines to states for distribution.

• I am eligible for the vaccine, but am having a hard time getting an appointment. What should I do?

  Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/2021/02/12/covid-vaccine-appointment-websites/

  Many people are struggling to get appointments for COVID-19 vaccines. It is expected that these problems will ease in a few weeks as more doses become available. However, some tips include:

  • Enlist friends and family members to help you. This is especially important if you are not comfortable with computers or online scheduling.
  • Be ready to fill out screening forms quickly, so appointments don’t fill up in the time it takes you to complete the online form.
  • Select a later date. The soonest appointments may fill up quickly. Try multiple services, including local health departments, pharmacies and hospital systems.
  • Watch closely for updates on social media and in the news, but be sure to rely on credible sources.

  The Test and Protect website lists many local providers at https://healthcollab.org/vaccine-info/

• What should I do if my appointment is canceled due to delays in delivery of vaccine supplies?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/well/covid-vaccine-questions.html?referringSource=articleShare

  If your appointment is canceled, try to schedule another as soon as you can. Experts are working to expand the number of providers and doses available in the coming weeks.

  What can I do to protect myself until I can get COVID-19 vaccine?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  To protect yourself, follow these recommendations:

  • 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

  Why has the number of vaccines administered (as opposed to delivered to warehouses, etc.) fallen so far short of goals?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/

  Distribution of a new vaccine to the entire population is a logistical effort unlike anything we’ve ever undertaken as a nation, and requires close coordination between federal, state, tribal, territorial, and local officials. Furthermore, the logistics of administering the vaccine have been made more complicated because distribution needs to be done on a priority basis and the vaccine itself requires cold storage.

  Many state and local agencies need federal funding and coordination assistance in order to efficiently administer the vaccine to millions of people. In addition, some states are managing surges in COVID-19 cases while also implementing a vaccine administration program. With many hospitals facing nearly full capacity, healthcare systems are stretched thin to both care for patients and provide staff for the vaccination process.

  Until everyone is vaccinated, the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones, and other members of your community is to wear a mask, avoid large gatherings, practice social distancing, and wash your hands.

• Can any pharmacy, clinic or hospital offer the COVID-19 vaccine?

  Source: https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/vaccine

  To receive and administer the COVID-19 vaccine and supplies, providers must enroll in a federal vaccine distribution program, coordinated through the state immunization program (unless they are part of a national chain that registered directly with the CDC). The federal government will procure and distribute the vaccine at no cost to enrolled providers.

• If I’ve already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I need vaccine?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html and https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

  Yes. Due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that reinfection with COVID-19 is possible, you should be vaccinated regardless of whether you already had COVID-19 infection.  If you were treated for COVID-19 symptoms with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma, you should also wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure what treatments you received or if you have more questions about getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

• If I receive a first vaccine dose, will I be able to get the second dose?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/ and https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

  Two of the three available vaccines are based on a two-dose regimen and the great majority of public health officials and vaccination experts believe it is important to stay with that two-dose regimen because that’s what was shown to be effective during the clinical trials. Vaccinating as many people as possible as quickly as possible and ensuring that everyone is able to complete their two-dose regimen in the prescribed time period is something that is being studied and closely monitored. In January, the CDC also updated guidance to note that second doses of the vaccine may be administered up to six weeks after the first dose. Most providers will notify you when it’s time to schedule your second dose. If you don’t hear, check with the provider who gave you your first dose. 

• Will we need to get the vaccine yearly like the flu vaccine or just once?

  Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know

  Experts aren’t sure yet. A few people who have had COVID-19 have apparently had a second, often milder case of the disease, and researchers are exploring what this means in terms of how long immunity from the coronavirus lasts. Vaccine developers are looking at ways to boost the effectiveness of a vaccine so that it provides longer immune protection than a natural infection with the coronavirus.

• Will the COVID-19 vaccine need to be administered as frequently as every 90 days (since people are getting reinfected after 90 days) to curb this pandemic?

  Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know

  Experts aren’t sure yet. A few people who have had COVID-19 have apparently had a second, often milder case of the disease, and researchers are exploring what this means in terms of how long immunity from the coronavirus lasts. Vaccine developers are looking at ways to boost the effectiveness of a vaccine so that it provides longer immune protection than a natural infection with the coronavirus.

• Could you discuss the differences between the vaccines?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf and https://khn.org/news/article/when-your-chance-for-a-covid-shot-comes-dont-worry-about-the-numbers/ and https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2021/02/28/johnson-and-johnson-covid-vaccine/ 

  Three vaccines are currently licensed: One developed by Pfizer/BioNTech, one by Moderna and one by Johnson & Johnson.  

  The Pfizer and Moderna Both vaccines are mRNA vaccines that have a piece of mRNA specific for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. They have similar efficacy and safety profiles.  

  The main differences between the Pfizer and Moderna two vaccines include the ages of individuals eligible to get the vaccines, the length of time between doses, the requirements for storage and the preparation of the vaccine. 
  The factors above will be different for other vaccines that may be authorized soon. One important difference is that some vaccines may only require one dose.

  Johnson & Johnson is an adenovirus vector vaccine.  

  In clinical trials, people reported fewer and milder side effects from the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

  The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is easier to administer as well—it only requires one dose and can be stored in regular refrigerators. Unused doses have a longer shelf life as well.  

• Is one manufacturer's vaccine better than another?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/29/health/Covid-vaccine-explainer.html

  Many experts suggest that if any vaccine is available to you, get it. Don’t wait for a particular manufacturer. As data from the vaccine trials is released, there is a clear difference between the various vaccines’ efficacy in the trials. Experts note that most crucial piece of data about a vaccine is its ability to prevent severe illness and death; and all vaccines approved for use in the U.S. or expected to be approved soon meet similar standards for severe illness/death. Comparing how well vaccines prevent mild illness is more difficult, experts caution, because the vaccines trials were done during different timeframes and in different parts of the world, meaning that the amount of virus circulating and the variants were different. A final factor is distribution of the vaccine, some require only one dose and can be stored at regular temperatures, while other require multiple doses and extreme cold storage.

• If a vaccine requires two doses, can they be from different manufacturers?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

  The CDC notes that every effort should be made to get both doses of vaccine from the same manufacturer, but in exceptional situations a person could be given a second doses from a different manufacturer.

• Should people wait in long lines to get shots or wait until supplies are more readily available?

  Source: https://publichealthcollaborative.org/faq/ and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect.html

  Initial supplies of the vaccine are limited, and guidelines as to who can receive it vary by state. Plus, distribution of a new vaccine to the entire population is a logistical effort unlike anything we’ve ever undertaken as a nation, and requires close coordination between federal, state, tribal, territorial and local officials. Furthermore, the logistics of administering the vaccine have been made more complicated because distribution needs to be done on a priority basis and the vaccine itself requires cold storage.

  This has created situations where some people are waiting in lines for vaccinations. When you do go to get vaccinated, be sure to take the following precautions:

  • If you think you have COVID-19, notify the health care provider before your visit and follow their instructions.
  • When you get the vaccine, you and your health care worker will both need to wear masks that cover your nose and mouth
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when you have to go out in public.
  • Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Stay at least 6 feet away from others while inside and in lines.

• Can I get COVID-19 vaccine at same time as another shot?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  Wait at least 14 days before getting any other vaccine, including a flu or shingles vaccine, if you get your COVID-19 vaccine first. And if you get another vaccine first, wait at least 14 days before getting your COVID-19 vaccine.

How vaccine works

• How will a COVID-19 vaccine work in my body?

  Source: https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/vaccine

  The COVID-19 vaccine teaches your immune system to recognize the coronavirus. When you get the vaccine, your immune system makes antibodies (“fighter cells”) that stay in your blood and protect you in case you are infected with the virus. You get protection against the disease without having to get sick.

  When enough people in the community can fight off the coronavirus, it has nowhere to go. This means we can stop the spread quicker and get a little closer to ending this pandemic.

• Does the vaccine prevent infection or just symptoms?

  Source: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/covid19/Cv19VaccineFAskedQ.pdf

  While the vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe disease, they might not prevent asymptomatic infection, meaning vaccine recipients might still be able to be infected, but not have symptoms and, therefore, unknowingly spread the virus. The vaccine manufacturers are conducting additional studies to clarify.

• I heard that the COVID-19 virus is mutating rapidly in the UK. Are the current vaccines still effective against the new strains?

  Source: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/general-resources/frequently-asked-questions+covid-19-vaccine

  Viruses frequently change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time. Multiple variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the United States and globally during this pandemic. Most variants do not change how the virus behaves, and many disappear. According to the CDC, scientists are working to learn more about how easily this variant and other variants might spread, whether they could cause more severe illness, and whether currently authorized vaccines will protect people against them. 

• How do they know the amount of dosage my body needs?

  Source: https://www.chop.edu/centers-programs/vaccine-education-center/vaccine-schedule/other-schedule-issues

  When authorizing vaccines, age is more important than weight. The COVID-19 vaccines are currently not approved for those under age 16.

  Immune cells, called T cells and B cells, must be able to recognize the component of the vaccine, so that if a person comes into contact with that virus or bacteria again, these educated cells can become active and protect the person from an infection. Since these cells are present throughout the body, they are usually educated near where the vaccine is given and then the cells, not the vaccines, travel throughout the body.

• Do you have to have U.S. citizenship or permanent residency to receive the vaccine?

  Source: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/covid19/Cv19VaccineFAskedQ.pdf

  No, all vaccine sites are open to anyone within the priority groups regardless of country, state or county of residence. Individuals will need to return to the same site to receive their second shot, either 21 or 28 days after the first dose, depending on which vaccine they receive.

• Do I need to get tested for COVID-19 before receiving either dose of vaccine?

  Source: https://health.ri.gov/publications/frequentlyaskedquestions/COVID19-Vaccine.pdf

  No, you do not need to get tested for COVID-19 prior to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. If you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 or have known current COVID-19 infection, you should not get vaccine until after you have completed your isolation requirements. This recommendation applies to persons who develop COVID-19 infection before receiving any vaccine doses as well as those who develop COVID-19 infection after the first dose but before the second dose.

• Can I take my routine medications (I.e. blood pressure, cholesterol) the day I’m scheduled to get my COVID-19 vaccination?

  Source: https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/covid-vaccine-medication-interaction.html

  Medical experts say the vast majority of prescription drugs will work just as well after you get a COVID-19 vaccine, and they won't diminish the effectiveness of the shot you're getting to ward off the coronavirus. For specific questions, please consult your health care provider.

• Who can’t get the vaccine?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf

  • Children under age 16 are not eligible to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Those under age 19 are not eligible to receive the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine as there are not data on the safety and efficacy in this population.
  • People who are immunocompromised are able to determine if they wish to receive the vaccine. These patients are encouraged to have a discussion on the potential benefits and risks with their health care provider.
  • As with other vaccines, anyone who has a fever or other symptoms may not be able to get the vaccine until their symptoms resolve. This includes those who have symptoms or are positive for COVID-19.
  • There is also caution for people with documented anaphylactic reactions to vaccines. Individuals with a known allergy to any of the vaccine components should not be immunized.

• If I live with someone who has a health concern (I.e. pregnant woman, someone with cancer), can I still get vaccinated?

  Source: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/COVID-19_Vaccine_FAQ.pdf and https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/26/health/covid-vaccine-health-workers-families.html

  None of the COVID-19 vaccines available in the U.S. can cause you to test positive on COVID-19 viral tests, which are used to see if you have a current infection. However, people who are vaccinated should still take precautions when around those who are not vaccinated. Little data is available on how well the vaccines stop the spread of the virus, so someone who is vaccinated but not ill may infect others.

Cost

• Who is paying for the COVID-19 vaccines?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  Vaccine doses purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to the American people at no cost. However, vaccination providers can charge an administration fee for giving someone the shot. Vaccination providers can be reimbursed for this by the patient’s public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund. No one can be denied a vaccine if they are unable to pay the vaccine administration fee.

• What is a vaccine administration fee?

  Source: https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/vaccine

  The vaccine administration fee is the fee a health care provider charges to give you the vaccine. This is separate from the cost of the vaccine itself, which the federal government will cover.

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Fertility

• Can pregnant women get the vaccine?

  Source: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-advisory/articles/2020/12/vaccinating-pregnant-and-lactating-patients-against-covid-19  

  Pregnancy should not be a barrier to getting vaccinated. Women who have questions about the vaccine should talk to their provider about it; but a conversation or authorization from a provider should not be required for pregnant women seeking a vaccine. It’s also important to note that pregnant women can get vaccinated at locations offering it to other groups; they do not need any special accommodations.    

• Can breastfeeding women get the vaccine?

  Source: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/COVID-19_Vaccine_FAQ.pdf

  A lactating person who is part of a group recommended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine (e.g., health care personnel) may choose to be vaccinated. A conversation between you and your health care provider may help with the decision about taking the vaccine.

• Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause infertility?

  Source: https://www.doh.wa.gov/Emergencies/COVID19/vaccine

  No. This is a myth circulated online by non-scientific sources.

• Should I wait to conceive until after I get the vaccine?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/well/covid-vaccine-questions.html?referringSource=articleShare and https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/interim-recommendations-for-use-of-the-moderna-mrna-1273-vaccine-against-covid-19

  Obstetricians recommend being up-to-date on all vaccines before pregnancy, so it’s a good idea to get the Covid-19 vaccine as soon as you are eligible and can get an appointment. Covid-19 poses an especially high risk to pregnant women, so ideally you should get vaccinated before you become pregnant. But lack of access to the vaccine now should not be a reason to delay your pregnancy, experts say, and pregnancy should not be delayed after you are vaccinated.

Children

• Is it safe for teenagers 16-19 to get the COVID vaccines?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf

  Children and adolescents under age 16 are not eligible to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Those under age 19 are not eligible to receive the Moderna or Johnso & Johnson vaccines as there are not data on the safety and efficacy in this population.

• What if my child has asthma?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf

  Once it’s approved for children, those with asthma can receive the COVID-19 vaccine; however, people who have had allergic reactions to other vaccinations should consult their health care provider about getting vaccinated.

• Can children under 5 get the vaccine safely?

  Source: https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID19-Vaccine-FAQs.pdf

  No. Children and adolescents under age 16 are not eligible to receive any of the vaccines currently authorized in the U.S. Children age 16-18 can receive the Moderna vaccine.

• What is the current status of COVID-19 vaccine research in children and adolescents?

  Source: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions/

  Trials with children as young as 5 are currently underway. The American Academy of Pediatrics is one of the organizations advocating for the inclusion of children in COVID-19 vaccine trials.

• Will there be a vaccine for younger children and babies?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/well/covid-vaccine-questions.html?referringSource=articleShare

  Researchers will continue to study the vaccines in younger children, but it will take time. Right now, Pfizer’s vaccine is approved only for children 16 or older. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson’s are approved only for those 18 or older. The next group being studied are children 12 and older. COVID-19 vaccines for very young children will come later, and it will take time to recruit participants to those studies. Childhood immunization experts said that vaccines “for the most part” work equally well in children and adults. Occasionally, as with the hepatitis B vaccine, different doses are required. Children have more active immune systems than adults, and may have stronger reactions, including more fever, muscle and joint aches, and fatigue.

• Will there be a vaccine available for children before the 2021-22 school year?

  Source: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions/

  This will depend on the results of the trials of the vaccine in adolescents and children that are planned or underway now. Based on the current pace of research, it is potentially achievable that we will have a vaccine for at least some age groups of children and adolescents before the 2021-22 school year begins.

• Where do college students fall on the list for getting the vaccine?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/well/covid-vaccine-questions.html?referringSource=articleShare

  College students who have no underlying medical conditions are likely to be vaccinated with the general population of healthy adults. Depending on how quickly states can resolve vaccine supply and distribution issues, college students could start getting vaccinated as early as this spring or in the summer.

• Will the vaccine be required for school entry?

  Source: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions/

  When a vaccine is shown to be safe and effective in children, health authorities, including the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, will make recommendations on when and how children should receive the vaccine. However, it is a state government decision which vaccines are required for school entry. Those decisions could vary by state.

• Children are much less likely than adults to have severe disease from COVID-19, so why do they need to be vaccinated?

  Source: https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions/19

  COVID-19 can cause significant illness in children. In children for whom COVID-19 caused serious illness, half had an underlying condition, and half did not. This is similar to influenza. We need to vaccinate children because we do not know which children may be at higher risk of serious, possibly life-threatening illness. Children can also transmit the virus, including to more vulnerable adults who are in their family or in their school, so it is important that children be included in the vaccine distribution in order to reduce community spread.

After You’re Vaccinated

• If I get vaccinated, can I stop wearing my mask?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  No. Experts need to understand more about the protection that COVID-19 vaccines provide in real-world conditions before recommending that people stop wearing masks or practicing social distancing. Experts also don’t yet know if getting vaccinated for COVID-19 keeps you from spreading the virus to other people, even if you don’t get sick yourself. Other factors, including how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading in communities, will also affect this decision.

• Does getting sick with COVID-19 provide better protection than the vaccine gives?

  Source: https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2020-12/covid-19-vaccine-patient-faqs.pdf

  Both COVID-19 and the vaccines are new. We do not know how long protection lasts for those who get infected or for those who are vaccinated. What we do know is that COVID-19 has caused very serious illness and death for a lot of people. If you get COVID-19, you also risk giving it to loved ones who may get very sick. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer choice. Keep in mind that the vaccines are not a perfect fix. We will still need to practice other precautions like wearing a mask, social distancing, handwashing until public health officials say otherwise.

• Which lasts longer, immunity from vaccine or from getting COVID-19 virus?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  The protection someone gains from having an infection (called “natural immunity”) varies depending on the disease, and it varies from person to person. Because this virus is new, we don’t know how long natural immunity might last. Current evidence suggests that getting the virus again (reinfection) is uncommon in the 90 days after the first infection with the virus that causes COVID-19.

  We won’t know how long immunity lasts after vaccination until we have more data on how well COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions.

• If the vaccine is a two-dose vaccine, how will I know when to get the second dose?

  Source: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/COVID-19_Vaccine_FAQ.pdf and https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

  When you receive the vaccine, you will receive a card with the date of your first dose, the name/manufacturer of the vaccine received and the date on which you should receive your second dose. Your second dose of COVID-19 vaccine must be from the same product name/manufacturer as the first dose. Both of the available vaccines are based on a two-dose regimen and the great majority of public health officials and vaccination experts believe it is important to stay with that two-dose regimen because that’s what was shown to be effective during the clinical trials. In January, the CDC also updated guidance to note that second doses of the vaccine may be administered up to six weeks after the first dose. Most providers will notify you when it’s time to schedule your second dose. If you don’t hear, check with the provider who gave you your first dose.

• What happens if you don't take the second dose?

  Source: https://www.webmd.com/vaccines/covid-19-vaccine/news/20201216/covid-19-vaccines-101-faq

  Protection is assumed to be less. In data that Moderna submitted to the FDA before its Dec. 17 review for its request for emergency use authorization, for instance, its analysis suggested that the first dose provides protection from getting COVID-19, but the data did not allow for a “firm conclusion," the FDA says. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are believed to be around 50% effective after just one dose.

• After the required doses, how long until it takes effect and provides protection?

  Source: https://www.webmd.com/vaccines/covid-19-vaccine/news/20201216/covid-19-vaccines-101-faq

  Full immunity happens about two weeks after the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or the dose of a single-dose vaccine. 

• Do I need to quarantine after exposure to a case after I’ve been fully vaccinated?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

  Recent guidance from the CDC is that people who are vaccinated and exposed to someone with COVID-19 may not have to quarantine if the vaccinated person: 

  • Is fully vaccinated (more than 2 weeks after the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or 2 weeks after the second dose of a single-dose vaccine)
  • Has received the last dose within the last 90 days
  • Does not have any symptoms of COVID-19

• I am planning a trip outside of the U.S. and need to be vaccinated. What should I do?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html

  Because travel increases the chance of spreading or getting COVID-19, the CDC currently recommends that you avoid travel.

  If you must travel and are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, health experts recommend that you get vaccinated prior to your trip. Measures like wearing a mask and frequent hand washing can also protect you while traveling.

• If I’m vaccinated, can I begin to travel without having to quarantine upon arrival to a destination?

  Source: https://health.ri.gov/publications/frequentlyaskedquestions/COVID19-Vaccine.pdf and https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/immunity-passports-in-the-context-of-covid-19

  Vaccinated persons should continue to follow all current guidance to protect themselves and others, including following CDC travel guidance.

  Some countries have implemented COVID-19 immunity passports, allowing people who have been infected and recovered or who are fully vaccinated to attend large events or travel. The World Health Organization cautions against the use of such measures, as there is not enough scientific evidence to show that people can’t be re-infected, and those with passports may be less likely to follow other public health measures, like wearing of masks and social distancing.

• If I get symptoms shortly after I’ve been vaccinated, should I get tested?

  Source: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/COVID-19_Vaccine_FAQ.pdf

  If you have symptoms shortly after receiving the vaccine, these symptoms do not mean you have developed COVID-19 from the vaccine. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may feel like flu and may even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.

• If I get sick with COVID-19 after the first dose of the vaccine that requires two doses but before getting the second dose of the vaccine, what do I do about the second dose?

  Source: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/COVID-19_Vaccine_FAQ.pdf

  You should still plan to receive the second dose after you recover from your COVID-19 illness and after you finish your isolation period for COVID-19 infection (for most people, this will be 10 days after symptoms started or positive COVID-19 test, and no fever for 24 hours). Note that the second dose of vaccine should still be no sooner than the recommended waiting period for the second dose (21 days for the Pfizer vaccine, 28 days for the Moderna vaccine).

• If I test positive after getting a COVID-19 vaccine, do I have COVID-19?

  Source: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/cedep/novel-coronavirus/COVID-19_Vaccine_FAQ.pdf

  None of the COVID-19 vaccines available in the U.S. can cause you to test positive on COVID-19 viral tests, which are used to see if you have a current infection. Additionally, the first dose of vaccine only gives a partial amount of protection, so if you test positive by PCR after receiving the vaccine, it is likely a true positive. You should isolate for 10 days, inform your close contacts to quarantine and seek medical care as needed.

• Once I am fully vaccinated, is possible to still spread COVID-19 to others?

  Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/mask-distance-vaccine-safety-covid/2021/01/20/f80eeab6-55ce-11eb-a08b-f1381ef3d207_story.html

  Experts are still studying this. Both vaccines currently available take time to reach their full efficacy (up to 2 weeks after the second shot is received). Experts also think that people who are fully vaccinated may still be able to transmit COVID-19, even if the vaccinated person doesn’t have symptoms. For these reasons, experts recommend that vaccinated people continue to wear masks, wash hands often and practice social distancing.

• I’ve heard that taking a pain reliever after getting a COVID-19 vaccine could blunt its effectiveness. Is that true?

  Source: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/well/covid-vaccine-questions.html?referringSource=articleShare

  Most experts agree it’s safe to take a pain reliever or fever reducer like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort after you get vaccinated. However, you shouldn’t try to stave off discomfort by taking a pain reliever before getting the shot, as some experts think it may lessen your immune response.

Miscellaneous

• Does either vaccination contain blood products or stem cells?

  Source: https://health.ri.gov/publications/frequentlyaskedquestions/COVID19-Vaccine.pdf

  The use of stem cells is a concern for many people of the Catholic faith. The Vatican stated that while the vaccines have some connection to cell lines that came from tissue taken from fetal cells, the cell lines have been modified so much that it is not immoral to receive a vaccine developed with human cells. Further, Catholic leaders consider vaccination coverage a moral obligation; vaccines protect health and save lives. By getting vaccinated, you can protect those who cannot be vaccinated due to underlying conditions.

• I refuse blood transfusions or other products with blood fractions to be used in my own body, it was of great concern to me if the vaccines contained any of those?

  Source: https://www.nebraskamed.com/COVID/vaccine/safety

  The vaccines do not include blood products, like red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma or platelets.

• What percentage of people need to be vaccinated to have herd immunity?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  Experts do not yet know what percentage of people would need to get vaccinated to achieve herd immunity to COVID-19. Herd immunity means that enough people in a community are protected from getting a disease because they’ve already had the disease or they’ve been vaccinated. Herd immunity makes it hard for the disease to spread from person to person, and it even protects those who cannot be vaccinated, like newborns. The percentage of people who need to have protection in order to achieve herd immunity varies by disease. CDC and other experts are studying herd immunity and will provide more information as it is available.

• Should people with HIV infections or who have other immunocompromising conditions, or who take immunosuppressive medications get vaccinated?

  Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/interactive/2020/covid-vaccines-what-you-need-to-know/

  The vaccines haven’t been studied in immunocompromised people, but those individuals are not anticipated to be at increased risk of adverse reactions. However, they should talk to their providers beforehand because their immune systems may not respond optimally.

• Do I need to be vaccinated for work?

  Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html

  The federal government does not require vaccination for individuals. For some health care workers or essential employees, a state or local government or employer, for example, may require that workers be vaccinated as a matter of state or other law. Check with your employer to see if they have any rules that apply to you.

• Will Ohio make COVID-19 vaccination mandatory?

  Source: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/general-resources/frequently-asked-questions+covid-19-vaccine

  No. The vaccine will be available, as supplies allow, to all Ohioans who choose to receive the vaccine.

• Why is a COVID-19 vaccine needed if social distancing and wearing masks prevent the COVID-19 virus from spreading?

  Source: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/resources/general-resources/frequently-asked-questions+covid-19-vaccine

  Getting us through the pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines boost your immune system, so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps, like masks and social distancing, help reduce your chance of being exposed to or spreading the virus. Together, the coming COVID-19 vaccines and proper prevention measures will offer the best protection from COVID-19.

• Some are trying to take advantage of people looking for the vaccine. What can I do to avoid COVID-19 vaccine scams?

  Source: https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/attachments/coronavirus-advice-consumers/20199_covid_vaccine_scams_infographic_8-5x11_v3.pdf and https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/23675-bbb-tip-dont-share-your-vaccine-card-on-social-media

  While vaccination details are getting worked out, here’s what you can be sure of:

  • You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine. That’s a scam.
  • You can’t pay to get early access to the vaccine. That’s a scam.
  • Nobody legit will call about the vaccine and ask for your Social Security, bank account, or credit card number. That’s a scam. Ignore any vaccine offers that say differently, or ask for personal or financial information.

  The Better Business Bureau also recommends that you don’t share photos of your vaccination cards on social media. It can make you a target for identity theft.

• I have an appointment for vaccination, but don’t have transportation. What should I do?

  Source: https://www.hamiltoncountyhealth.org/covid19/ and https://chfs.ky.gov/News/Documents/nrvaccinationsitesexpanding.pdf

  In Southwest Ohio: Call United Way 211. The Council on Aging’s Home52 program can book transportation to vaccine appointments. Details are available at https://www.hamiltoncountyhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/home52-Transportation-COVID-19.pdf. Ohio residents who are enrolled with a Medicaid Managed Care Organization may be eligible for transportation via the MCO. Learn more at https://www.hamiltoncountyhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/Ohio-Medicaid-COVID-Testing-and-Vaccination-Transportation-Support-002.pdf.

  In Northern Kentucky, call the statewide COVID-19 hotline at (800) 722-5725.

• Will a vaccine end the COVID-19 pandemic?

  Source: https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/covid-19/vaccine/FAQ.aspx

  Safe and effective vaccines against COVID-19 are a major breakthrough in preventing COVID-19 and eventually ending the COVID-19 pandemic. But vaccines alone won’t end the pandemic right away. At this time, vaccination needs to be used in combination with other prevention methods, like hand washing, social distancing and wearing masks.

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