Question 1

What COVID-19 vaccines are available?

Accepted Answer

There are three COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the US:  Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are preferred.  You may get Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine in some situations - it is significantly less effective than Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and is no longer recommended as first-line vaccine

Question 2

How are the vaccines administered?

Accepted Answer

The Pfizer vaccine is given in two shots, 3-8 weeks apart. A 3rd dose 1 month later is recommended as part of the primary series for certain immunocompromised individuals.*  A booster is recommended for anyone 12+ who had their last shot 5+ months ago. A 2nd booster is recommended for anyone 50+ who had their 1st booster 4+ months ago.  The Moderna vaccine is given in two shots, 4-8 weeks apart. A 3rd dose 1 month later is recommended for certain immunocompromised individuals.* A booster is recommended for anyone 18+ who had their last shot 5+ months ago. A 2nd booster is recommended for anyone 50+ who had their 1st booster 4+ months ago.  The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is given as a single dose shot, with a booster to be administered 2 months later (the booster may be either a second J&J vaccine or preferably one of the mRNA vaccines) A 2nd booster with either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine is recommended for anyone 50+ who had their 1st booster 4+ months ago.    *Individuals who should get a 3rd dose of mRNA (Pfizer or Moderna) vaccine as part of their primary vaccine series: For moderately to severely immunocompromised people, the CDC is now recommending a 3-dose mRNA vaccine schedule (Moderna or Pfizer). The third dose should be given 1 month after completing the initial 2 doses (or as soon as possible, if it has been longer than 1 month since completing the original 2-dose series). Specifically, this includes people who: are receiving active cancer treatment for cancer Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system Have moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome) Have advanced or untreated HIV infection Are receiving active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response  The CDC has also approved a "booster" dose of COVID vaccine for the following: Anyone who received two shots of either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months ago, AND meets any of the following criteria:      Anyone 18+ who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months ago

Question 3

Do I need a "booster" shot?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  COVID-19 vaccines continue to protect people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and even dying—especially people who have received a booster. The CDC recommends everyone ages 12 years and older receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster after completing their primary COVID-19 vaccination series. Some people can receive two boosters.  Who should get a COVID vaccine booster: Anyone 12+ who received two shots of Pfizer-BioNTech at least 5 months ago Anyone 18+ who received two shots of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least 5 months ago Anyone 18+ who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months ago should get a booster of either mRNA Covid vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna)  Who should get a 2nd COVID vaccine booster: Adults 50 and older who got their 1st booster at least 4 months ago.  For more information about these updated recommendations, please see the CDC website

Question 4

Do I need a 4th dose of Covid Vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you are: 50+ years old, and had your first COVID booster 4+ months ago 12+ years old, and are moderately to severely immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system). This includes people who have: Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome) Advanced or untreated HIV infection Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress their immune response for more information, see CDC website

Question 5

Can I "mix and match" the booster shot?

Accepted Answer

YES.   Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received, and others may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots. Preliminary evidence suggests that mixing two Covid vaccine types produces a stronger immune response than matching the booster to the initial vaccine. Booster doses of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) seem to raise antibody levels higher than a booster dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Question 6

Where can I get a COVID vaccine or booster?

Accepted Answer

Many pharmacies offer the COVID vaccine. To find available locations and book your appointment, go to vaccines.gov  Our offices have a limited supply of Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccines. Please schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your vaccine options and receive your COVID vaccine.

Question 7

How effective are the vaccines?

Accepted Answer

According to FDA data: - the Pfizer and the Moderna vaccines are >90% effective in preventing severe infection and death due to COVID-19 after both doses are received (and boostered, when eligible).  - The Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine is less effective than the mRNA (Pfizer and Moderna) vaccines, particularly against new/emerging COVID variants. Anyone who received a J&J vaccine should get a booster vaccine 2 months after the initial J&J dose. The preferred booster is either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

Question 8

Are the vaccines effective against new COVID-19 variants?

Accepted Answer

There are several new variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. These include: the Alpha variant (first reported in the U.K), the Beta variant (first reported in South Africa), the Delta variant (first reported in India), and the OMICRON variant (which emerged as the dominant strain in the US in late December 2021).   The mRNA vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech) are both very effective in preventing severe disease and death from Covid. Over time and as new variants emerge, the efficacy of these vaccines against symptomatic infection declines, though protection against severe disease remains strong.   The Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccine is less effective than the mRNA vaccines.

Question 9

How do the vaccines work?

Accepted Answer

The vaccines stimulate your immune system to produce antibodies against certain proteins found on the surface of SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes Covid. These antibodies block the virus from entering human cells, and thus prevent the virus from replicating and making you sick.

Question 10

Why should I get the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

COVID-19 kills between 1 and 4 percent of people infected with the virus. The death rate is highest in people over 65 or those with underlying medical conditions (such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, lung disease).    People who survive COVID-19 can still suffer significant long-term complications from the disease, including damage to the lungs, heart, and nervous system. Some symptoms can last for weeks or even months, including: fatigue, "brain fog", chest pain, shortness of breath, loss of sense of taste or smell.   The COVID-19 vaccine will save lives and decrease the risk of long term complications. The more people who get vaccinated, the better our ability to stop the spread of COVID-19.   GETTING VACCINATED HELPS TO SLOW THE SPREAD COVID AND REDUCES THE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE VIRUS TO MUTATE INTO MORE DANGEROUS FORMS.

Question 11

Can I get COVID-19 from the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

NO. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines include a small piece of genetic material from the virus (messenger RNA, or mRNA); this material tells your cells to make a "spike" protein which your body then recognizes as a "threat", which your immune system fights off by producing antibodies against future infection. The mRNA cannot replicate the full viral particle, and therefore cannot cause COVID infection.

Question 12

I already had COVID - should I still get the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We do not know how long after infection someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again, so you should still get the COVID-19 vaccine if you have already recovered.   However: You cannot receive the vaccine if you currently have an active COVID-19 infection. You may choose to hold off getting the vaccine for up to 3 months after you have COVID, as you likely have some degree of protection from antibodies your immune system made while you were ill. However, it is still possible to get re-infected, particularly since new COVID variants continue to emerge and spread.

Question 13

Is there a COVID vaccine for children or adolescents?

Accepted Answer

For 12-16 year olds - YES. As of 5/10/21, the FDA extended its Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer vaccine to be administered to adolescents age 12-16. For 5-11 year olds – YES. As of 11/2/21, the Pfizer pediatric dose is available under the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization, and is recommended by the CDC for 5-11 year olds. Under 5 years old: Not yet.

Question 14

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?

Accepted Answer

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. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Emergency Use Authorizations for COVID-19 vaccines that have been shown to meet rigorous safety criteria and be effective as determined by data from the manufacturers and findings from large clinical trials.   READ MORE ABOUT COVID VACCINE SAFETY HERE

Question 15

What are the possible side effects of the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Some people who receive the COVID-19 vaccine may experience side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.   Common side effects include: Pain, swelling, or rash on the arm where you get the shot Fever/chills Fatigue Headache Rare but serious side effects may include: blood clots that may present as severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath (~ 7 cases per million vaccine doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, typically among women ages 18-49) myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the muscle or sac surrounding the heart) presenting as shortness of breath or chest pain (~12.6 cases per million doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, typically among 12-39 year olds, with onset of symptoms within 1 week of the second vaccine dose). If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention

Question 16

Can the vaccines cause a serious allergic reaction?

Accepted Answer

While serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can occur, they are very rare. Current estimates are 11 per million doses of Pfizer vaccine and 2.5 per million doses of Moderna. People with a history of prior anaphylaxis are at increased risk and should discuss this with their primary care physician or allergist prior to getting vaccinated.

Question 17

What can I do to prevent or treat side effects from the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

If you take aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) for a medical reason, you can continue to take it as directed. However, it is recommended that you do not take any of these medicines on the day you are scheduled for your vaccine (prior to getting the shot) because they could dull your body’s immune response. If you have a fever or body aches after being vaccinated, you may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed. You should also NOT take antihistamines (like Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec, or Benadryl) BEFORE getting the vaccine as these may mask an immediate allergic reaction.

Question 18

Who should NOT get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Do NOT get the vaccine if you: have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in a COVID-19 vaccine, you should not get that specific vaccine. had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) after getting the first shot, you should not get the second shot. have had an immediate allergic reaction—even if it was not severe—to any ingredient in an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, you should not get either of the currently available mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Click HERE for a list of vaccine ingredients. are allergic to polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polysorbate  If you have had a severe allergic reaction to other vaccines or injections, you should ask your doctor whether you should get a COVID-19 vaccine. People with a history of severe allergic reactions not related to vaccines or injections may still get vaccinated.   You CAN get the vaccine even if you have a: History of allergies to oral medications Family history of severe allergic reactions Milder allergy to vaccines

Question 19

Can I get the vaccine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

YES. It is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women get the COVID-19 vaccine. Getting the vaccine can help reduce the risk of COVID complications during pregnancy and can help protect your baby. For more information, CLICK HERE.

Question 20

I already had COVID - should I still get the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We do not know how long after infection someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again, so you should still get the COVID-19 vaccine if you have already recovered.   However: You cannot receive the vaccine if you currently have an active COVID-19 infection. You may choose to hold off getting the vaccine for up to 3 months after you have COVID, as you likely have some degree of protection from antibodies your immune system made while you were ill. However, it is still possible to get re-infected, particularly since new COVID variants continue to emerge and spread.

Question 21

When can I get the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Anyone age 5 or up is eligible to receive a COVID vaccine. Many pharmacies are now administering the vaccine without appointments, but you can also schedule a vaccination appointment through vaccines.gov

Question 22

Where can I get the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Many pharmacies are now administering the vaccine without appointments, but you can also schedule a vaccination appointment through vaccines.gov

Question 23

How do I schedule a vaccine appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule a vaccination appointment through any of the following: California’s My Turn portal LA County public health department  LA City vaccine appointment website (Carbon Health) Local pharmacy

Question 24

Can I choose which vaccine I will receive?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When you schedule your vaccine appointment, you can find out which vaccine is being offered at that location.

Question 25

How much does the COVID-19 vaccine cost?

Accepted Answer

At this time, the COVID-19 vaccine is free. If you have insurance, your insurance provider may be charged for the vaccine administration, but there will be no out-of-pocket cost for you. If you do not have insurance, there is no cost.

Question 26

Can I get a 4th dose of Covid vaccine?

Accepted Answer

The CDC recommends that the following people get a 4th COVID vaccine:  Anyone 50+ who had a 3rd COVID shot at least 4 month ago Anyone who is 12+ who is moderately to severely immunocompromised should  receive 4 total doses of COVID-19 vaccine—a primary series of 3 doses, plus, when eligible, 1 booster dose  for more information, see the CDC website

Question 27

What are the possible side effects of the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

Some people who receive the COVID-19 vaccine may experience side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.   Common side effects include: Pain, swelling, or rash on the arm where you get the shot Fever/chills Fatigue Headache Rare but serious side effects may include: blood clots that may present as severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath (~ 7 cases per million vaccine doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, typically among women ages 18-49) myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the muscle or sac surrounding the heart) presenting as shortness of breath or chest pain (~12.6 cases per million doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, typically among 12-39 year olds, with onset of symptoms within 1 week of the second vaccine dose). If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention

Question 28

What can I do to treat side effects from the vaccine?

Accepted Answer

If you have a fever or body aches after being vaccinated, you may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed.   Rare but serious side effects may include: blood clots that may present as severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath (~ 7 cases per million vaccine doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, typically among women ages 18-49) myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation of the muscle or sac surrounding the heart) presenting as shortness of breath or chest pain (~12.6 cases per million doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, typically among 12-39 year olds, with onset of symptoms within 1 week of the second vaccine dose). If you experience any serious side effects, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, abdominal pain, or leg pain SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

Question 29

Do I still need to wear a mask after being vaccinated?

Accepted Answer

While data suggest the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are very effective, no vaccine is 100% effective, and immunity wanes over time. More recent variants (Omicron, BA.2) are significantly easier to spread than previous COVID variants. This means: healthcare facilities and long-term care facilities require that staff, patients, and visitors continue to wear masks  anyone who is immunosuppressed or at high risk for severe Covid (even if fully vaccinated and boostered) should continue to wear masks while indoors/in public. public health guidelines regarding masks and physical distancing are periodically updated based on local prevalence of COVID infection. Please check your local public health guidelines for most up-to-date information. For LA County guidelines, CLICK HERE.

Question 30

Can I still get or transmit COVID after being vaccinated?

Accepted Answer

People who are fully vaccinated are much less likely to get infected with COVID, and therefore less likely to transmit infection to others.   However: Protection from the vaccine doesn't kick in immediately. Both doses of the vaccine are required, and it may take up to 2 weeks after the second dose to get to maximal immunity. Vaccine efficacy declines over time, so if you are eligible for a booster dose, it is important to get one in order to bolster your immunity against infection. Breakthrough infections can happen despite vaccination. While COVID infection tends to be much less severe in people who are vaccinated, the virus can be spread to others. This is particularly true of newer variants such as Omicron.   This is why it's important that even after getting vaccinated, you continue to wear a mask and practice good hand hygeine.

Question 31

How long does protection from the vaccine last?

Accepted Answer

Protective antibodies that our bodies produce in response to vaccination wane over time. As a result, the CDC is recommending a "booster" dose of COVID vaccine for: Anyone 12+ who received two shots of either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months ago Anyone 18+ who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months ago Clinical trials continue to monitor vaccine efficacy over time.   Some immunocompromised people may not mount as robust an immune response to the vaccine, and should receive 3 doses of mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) instead of the usual 2 doses. For this subset of people, the third dose is considered part of their primary Covid vaccine series. The 3rd shot should be given 1 month after completing the 2nd shot. A "booster" shot should then be given 6 months later.

Your Guide to COVID-19 Vaccines