Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference in the Pfizer and Moderna Vaccine?
The Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines both use what’s called messenger RNA or mRNA. The mRNA contains genetic instructions that tell cells to make a particular protein found on the COVID-19 virus. When the human immune system detects that protein, it begins developing defenses against it, which prepares it for encounters with the actual virus. So, in terms of their approach to producing immunity, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are the same.
Will I get sick after I get vaccinated?
While it is common to experience some mild side effects from receiving a vaccine dose, there is no guarantee you will have any symptoms or side effects. Response to the introduction of the medication to your body’s immune system varies from person to person.
How often am I going to have to get vaccinated for COVID-19?
Recommendations vary based on age and current health status. Everyone should receive at least 1 dose of the 2023-2024 COVID-19 Vaccine.
What variant does the vaccine protect against?
The new COVID-19 vaccine formulation has been updated to protect against Omicron variant XBB.1.5.
Am I going to turn into a zombie or a werewolf if I get vaccinate?
There are currently no known reports of people turning into zombies or anything else. If you are the first, we ask that you please report your adverse reaction to the CDC prior to informing local news stations, your church or social media.
Can I still get vaccinated if I have recently come in contact with someone who had COVID?
It is recommended to wait and few days after close contact to see if you begin experiencing symptoms. If you do not experience symptoms, take a COVID-19 test to determine if a viral infection is detected. If none is detected, get vaccinated.
How long do I have to wait to get vaccinated after i get over COVID?
There is no standard recommended wait period for getting vaccinated after getting over COVID. Getting vaccinated after infection provides extra protection against COVID infection and you may consider delaying your vaccine by 3 months. However, certain factors could be a reason for getting vaccinated after infection sooner than later: Personal risk of severe disease, risk of disease transmission to a loved one,
What is the vaccination age range?
Any person 6-month-old and old can received the COVID-19 vaccine.
Can I get vaccinated for COVID and Flu around the same time?
Yes. It is recommended and safe for you to receive your flu vaccine at the same time you receive your COVID-19 vaccine and no significant drop in antibody response.
How long do I have to wait in between doses to receive a new dose?
The recommended wait time since your most recent dose is at least 8 weeks.
What the difference in the new vaccine and the other formulations?
This vaccine is designed to protect against currently circulating variants.
If I am experiencing a runny nose, cough, chills, and/or body aches, can I still get vaccinated?
These are symptoms of COVID-19 infection. We recommended getting tested prior to getting vaccinated. If test is negative, update your vaccination status.
Do I need to take something (Tylenol, ibuprofen, aspirin) before or after getting vaccinated?
There are currently no recommendations of taking any of these medications prior to receiving a vaccination.
Will the vaccine help if I am experiencing Long Haul COVID?
Getting at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccination can lower risk of developing long haul COVID. Studies have also shown it may relieve COVID long haul symptoms.
If I have already received my booster, can I still get vaccinated?
It is recommended that all eligible people received the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine. If it has been at least 2 months since your last booster, it’s time to get vaccinated.
If this is my first COVID-19 vaccination, how many more shots do I have to have?
The current recommendation is 1 dose of the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine if you are 5 years old or older with no immunocompromising. If you are immunocompromised and have not received any COVID-19 vaccine doses, receive 3 dose initial series.
Is this the new COVID-19 vaccine formulation?
Yes. This is the new 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccination.
Why should I get vaccinated?
Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is a safer, more reliable way to build protection than getting sick with COVID-19. The vaccine helps by creating an immune response without the potentially severe illness or post COVID conditions that can be associated the COVID infection. COVID-19 vaccines protect against severe illness and offer added protection to people who have had COVID including protection against being hospitalized from a new infection. Being vaccinated can also prevent transmission if a person experiences a COVID-19 breakthrough infection.
What are the potential side effects?
Injection site pain, fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain, fever, nausea, feeling unwell and swollen lymph nodes. Rarely, some people have had heart problems after getting an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Seek medical help if you have chest pain, shortness of breath or feelings of having a fast beating, fluttering or pounding heart within a week of getting the vaccine.
Can I mix and match vaccines i.e., if I had Moderna, is it safe to get Pfizer?
Yes. The CDC and FDA thoroughly reviewed the available data before making this recommendation.