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- Coronavirus Vaccines and Booster Shots Q&A
Coronavirus Vaccines and Booster Shots Q&A
Here are answers to some of the common vaccine and booster questions we're hearing from members. (updated February 2022)
The best way to make sure you’re protected is to get all the coronavirus vaccines and booster shots that are recommended for you.
Where can I get a vaccine?
Vaccines are available at many clinics and pharmacies — and some counties even have a home vaccination program for people who can’t leave the house.
Find a coronavirus vaccine or booster near you. You can also call us at 1-800-338-6833 (TTY 711) for help scheduling your vaccine or booster shot.
How many shots will I have to get?
Depending on which vaccine you get, you’ll need 1 or 2 shots at first, plus a booster shot later on. Learn more about the different coronavirus vaccines.
If you have a condition that causes problems with your immune system, you may need an extra shot. Talk to your doctor about what’s recommended for you.
These shots are all covered at no cost to you.
Do the vaccine and boosters work?
Yes! With new variants like Delta or Omicron, vaccinated people may still get the coronavirus. But the important thing is that they’re much less likely to get very sick and need to stay in the hospital — and much less likely to die from the virus.
With time, your protection against coronavirus goes down. That’s where the booster shot comes in. Getting your booster is like getting a power-up of protection against coronavirus.
Health experts, including Devoted Health’s team of doctors, highly recommend getting the vaccine and booster shots.
Which vaccine or booster should I get?
Vaccine: We suggest you get whichever one you can get first. All the vaccines available in the United States are safe and effective.
Booster: You’re allowed to “mix and match” — so you can get whichever booster shot is offered at your local pharmacy, doctor’s office, or vaccine clinic. If you have questions about which type of booster shot to get, check with your doctor. Learn more about when to get your booster.
Are the coronavirus vaccines and boosters safe?
Yes, they are. Even though the vaccine was developed quickly, it went through all the normal stages in testing. The studies did NOT take any shortcuts. It all happened so quickly thanks to amazing collaboration among experts from around the world.
Are there side effects?
With any vaccine, it's common to have symptoms like fatigue or a headache after you get it. This is your immune system reacting (in a good way!) to the shot. The side effects with the coronavirus vaccine are very similar to what we see with other vaccines.
In the coronavirus vaccine studies, up to half of people reported mild symptoms like fatigue or headache after getting the shot. Fewer than 5 of every 100 people reported things like low grade fevers or swelling and redness where they received the shot. These side effects typically go away on their own after a day or two. Be sure to call your doctor if you have any side effects that bother you or don't go away.
After I get the coronavirus vaccine and booster shots, can my life go back to normal?
Not quite. Even with the vaccine, it may still be possible to get the virus and pass it to someone else, especially with newer variants. Follow guidance from the CDC or your state on safety measures you can take.
Do I need to get the vaccine if I already had the coronavirus?
Yes. While having coronavirus gives you some protection, we don’t know how much or how long it lasts. Getting the coronavirus vaccine and booster is the best way to make sure you’re protected.
Do I still need to get the flu shot?
Yes! The flu shot and coronavirus shots protect against different viruses. Find a flu shot near you.