There is a lot of confusion surrounding the accessibility of COVID vaccinations. This is just a quick overview of what’s going on in our area and how to keep yourself informed as the situation changes sometimes daily.
SHOULD I get vaccinated?
Unfortunately, this has become a loaded question with lots of misinformation being tossed about. Obviously, it’s your personal decision to make. However, this decision should not be made lightly or without due diligence.
What we do know to be true is:
- Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines are effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19.
- COVID-19 vaccination is an important tool to help us get back to normal.
- Even after vaccination, we need to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions.
The CDC’s (Centers for Disease Control) website has lots of information to help you to make an informed decision for yourself and your family:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/keythingstoknow.html
WHO qualifies for a vaccination in Pennsylvania?
We are in Phase 2 of Pennsylvania's vaccine rollout. All Pennsylvanians age 16 and older are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health has outlined their process on this website:
https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Vaccine/Pages/Vaccine.aspx
HOW do I get vaccinated?
The next step is to locate a vaccine provider near you.
This map on the PA Department of Health website shows all the places currently able to provide vaccinations: https://padoh.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=e6f78224c6fe4313a1f70b56f553c357
You can get most recommended vaccines at your doctor’s office, and many recommended vaccines are also available at local pharmacies, health centers, health departments, and travel clinics.
At https://www.vaccines.gov/get-vaccinated/where you’ll find information and tools to help you find out where to get vaccinated near you—and some tips for making an appointment.
COVID-19 is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation. Your best protection is to stay informed and to follow the CDC’s guidelines.