About the Vaccine
Vaccine Boosters are now available for Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J
As of Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021, a vaccine booster dose is now available for eligible candidates originally immunized with Pfizer, Moderna, or J&J COVID-19 vaccine. A summary of eligibility can be
found here. With the most recent announcement comes the new guidance that mix-and-matching vaccine manufacturers is now acceptable. For example, those originally immunized with Pfizer can safely and effectively receive a J&J booster just as those immunized originally with J&J can receive a Moderna booster.
Many pharmacies throughout the Wabash Valley are offering the vaccine at this time; many with walk-in availability. Please use
vaccines.gov to find a location most convenient for you to receive your booster dose.
I am fully vaccinated but recently developed COVID-19. When can I get my booster?
Patients should get their booster after they have recovered from their infection and are no longer symptomatic. It is only necessary to wait 90 days if you received treatment with monoclonal antibody therapy (oftentimes an IV infusion or injection) for your illness. Please consult your primary care provider for guidance.
Watch: Dr. John Bolinger discusses the COVID-19 vaccine
How does the vaccine work?
The COVID-19 vaccine is different from traditional vaccines. When the vaccine is injected into the upper arm, the immune system gains a preview of what the COVID-19 virus looks like and does this without causing illness. The immune system can then work to design powerful antibodies that can fight the real virus if ever becoming infected. Please note the vaccine does not contain live virus thus, you cannot become infected from the vaccine.
If you receive a Pfizer vaccine, you are required to get a second dose 21 days later to be immunized.
If you receive a Moderna vaccine, you are required to get a second dose 28 days later to be immunized.
Is the vaccine effective?
Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are thought to be around 95% effective against COVID-19. The trials will continue for a few more years to determine how long the vaccine provides protection against COVID-19.
How long will the vaccine last?
The trials will continue for a few more years to determine how long the vaccine provides protection against COVID-19.
Why should I get the vaccine?
A safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine is critical to reducing COVID-19 related illness, hospitalizations, and deaths in our community and across our country. Getting vaccinated will also help protect people around you from COVID-19, particularly those at risk of severe illness from COVID-19. The vaccine will help our society begin to function as it did before COVID-19, although masking and social distancing will continue to occur for some time. Stopping the pandemic requires using all tools available.
Are there reasons I should not take the vaccine?
The manufacturers and FDA list two reasons not to get the vaccine:
1.) You have had a severe reaction to any ingredient of the vaccine.
2.) You have had a severe reaction after a previous dose of the vaccine.
What side effects can be expected from the vaccine?
The most commonly reported side effects are fever, headache, muscle aches, and swelling at the injection site all perhaps most notable after the second dose. You will be monitored for 15 minutes after getting a COVID-19 vaccine to see if you have an immediate reaction. If/when possible, attempt to get your second dose on the day before a scheduled day off from work. Side effects of the vaccine could mirror that of someone infected with the virus. If these symptoms continue two days after your vaccine with no improvement, only then should you consider being tested for COVID-19.
How long will it take for the vaccine to protect me?
Protection occurs seven (7) days after the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine and two (2) weeks after the second Moderna dose.
I am pregnant or breastfeeding. Can I still get the vaccine?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) does support pregnant females and breastfeeding mothers getting the vaccine. Read more of their supporting statements.
Are children able to receive the COVID vaccine?
There is no COVID-19 vaccine yet for children under age 12. Several companies have begun enrolling children in COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials.
If someone has had COVID-19, do they need to get the vaccine?
While much more is still to be learned, early studies indicate that natural immunity (occurs after having the virus) does not last long. Until we know more, it is still recommended to get the vaccine if you have tested positive for COVID-19. The CDC recommends getting the vaccine even if you have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. You should wait at least 10 days after symptoms onset to get vaccinated.
About the Process
Who is currently eligible to receive the vaccine in Indiana?
All healthcare providers, first responders, long-term care residents, and long-term care workers have been eligible for vaccination since 12/18/20. As of 5/12/21, all Hoosiers over the age of 12 are eligible to be vaccinated.
How do I register for a vaccine?
Hoosiers can visit vaccines.gov to find a vaccination site near you. If you are not able to use the site and do not have a loved one that can assist, Hoosiers are able to call “211” to reach the Indiana Information and Referral Service. Operators at this center will be able to register you for your vaccine.
Where will vaccines be administered?
Use Vaccines.gov to find a location near you, then call or visit their website to make an appointment.
Do I have to get vaccinated in the county in which I live?
No; you will need to be vaccinated in Indiana but are not restricted to the county you live in.
Once vaccinated, will I still have to wear a mask?
Yes.
Once vaccinated, will I still be required to quarantine if I am exposed?
No; if you are fully vaccinated and have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you will no longer need to quarantine. The CDC recommends you be tested 3-5 days after the exposure, however.
What will the vaccine cost?
There is no charge for the COVID-19 vaccine to the recipient. However, please note insurance information will be collected during the registration process and an administration fee may be charged by the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) to your insurance.
Is there a vaccine information sheet (VIS) available?
More information on the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine can be found here while the Moderna VIS is here.
Will we get a vaccine record/reminder card when we get the vaccine?
With the administration of each vaccine, the recipient will receive a card noting vaccination details. Record of your vaccination will be logged in the state immunization registry (
CHIRP) as are all vaccinations. Staff at the clinic will schedule you for your second dose at the time you receive your first dose. Remember, the second dose is critically important for the development of immunity to COVID-19.
Pfizer vaccine recipients will be scheduled for their second dose in 21 days.
Moderna vaccine recipients will be scheduled for their second dose in 28 days.
Where can I learn more about the COVID-19 vaccines?