Public health answers vaccine questions

YATES COUNTY--As vaccination efforts continue to increase across the region and state, Yates County Public Health has provided the following vaccination frequently asked questions. To see daily updates on the vaccination distribution visit: https://www.yatescounty.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=195.
Do I have to have an appointment to get vaccinated?
-Yes, registration is required to receive the vaccine. If someone shows up without an appointment, they will not be vaccinated.
Why aren't there more appointment slots?
-The number of appointment slots is based on how many doses of vaccine we have received from New York state. While we are requesting additional vaccines every week, we do not know how many vaccine doses we will end up receiving as there is a limited supply and every county in the state is also requesting the vaccine.
How will I find out when registration for more clinics becomes available?
-Each time we receive a shipment of vaccine from the state, we will open registration for additional clinics. We will announce registration through our website and social media.
How can people without internet access get registered for a clinic?
-People without internet access should reach out to our office by phone.
-We are hoping family members and friends help those without the internet as well.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
-Make sure you wear clothing that will allow vaccinators access to your shoulder.
-Bring your health insurance card and an ID.
-Bring proof of eligibility to your appointment. This may include an employee ID card, a letter from an employer or affiliated organization, or a pay stub, depending on the specific priority status.
-If you are eligible due to age, you should bring a form of ID (like a driver's license or passport) that includes your date of birth.
What are some other ways I can get vaccinated?
-People 65 and older can get vaccinated by their healthcare provider or pharmacist. Currently, pharmacists and healthcare providers are only allowed to vaccinate people 65 and older.
-People over the age of 75 who receive care through the VA can get vaccinated there. Please wait for the VA to reach out to you to schedule an appointment.
How will I know when vaccine eligibility is expanded?
-You can stay tuned to local news, NYS's website, or our website or social media.
Do I have to pay to get the vaccine?
- No, there is no cost or co-pay for the vaccine.
How soon after getting vaccinated am I protected from COVID-19?
-The COVID-19 vaccine, like all vaccines, does not instantly provide protection. It takes time for your immune system to respond to the vaccine and develop disease-fighting antibodies. The two COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the US require two doses, about a month apart, for you to be protected from COVID-19.
Can you tell me more about the vaccines that are currently available in the US?
-Moderna
• Second dose is required 28 days after your first dose.
• 94.1 percent effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection starting from 14 days after the second dose.
-Pfizer
• Second dose is required 21 days after your first dose.
• 95 percent effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19 infection starting from seven days after the second dose.
What should I expect after I get vaccinated?
- You will need to wait for 15 minutes after you get your vaccine.
- Like with all vaccines and other medications, there is a chance you might experience some symptoms after you get it. There is a possibility that you might feel some fatigue or some pain or muscle soreness at the injection site - you could even have a fever. Mild pain relievers should help you feel better. If you don't feel better within two or three days, you should follow-up with your doctor.