Updated COVID-19 vaccines are now available by appointment only. Here’s what you need to know.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 can be very contagious, and spreads quickly most often causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, the flu, or pneumonia. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill.
To learn more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, click here.
Here are some common myths about the COVID-19 vaccines and boosters:
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccines aren’t safe and effective.
Fact: The vaccine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration; regulators and drug companies continue to monitor its safety and effectiveness as more people take it.
The COVID-19 vaccine met high safety standards. During the trials, serious adverse events were very infrequent and were the same for those who received placebo or the vaccine
The vaccine performance exceeded expectations and protects against COVID-19 illness 95% of the time.
Most of the reaction to the vaccine is mild — some soreness where the vaccine was injected, a low-grade fever or achiness.
This really means your body is doing what it should as a result of the vaccine. Individuals who have had previous severe reactions (anaphylaxis) and pregnant women should discuss their specific situation with their doctor prior to receiving the vaccine.
Myth: The COVID-19 vaccine can give you COVID.
Fact: No. It is NOT biologically possible. The vaccine isn’t living virus, dead virus or chopped-up virus. It is merely a very small piece of biologically inactive genetic material and is not contagious. The vaccine formulation does not include preservatives, thimerosal or mercury. It is cell-free.
Mild side effects such as headache, fatigue, pain at injection site, and fever occur less commonly. These are signs that your immune system is doing what it should in reaction to the vaccine.
Myth: Pregnant women shouldn’t get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Fact: We encourage you to speak with your obstetric provider at your next visit to ask questions and discuss the COVID-19 vaccination if you are not sure about whether to be vaccinated.
- Pregnant individuals who get COVID-19 are at high risk. They are more likely to be hospitalized, admitted into ICU and connected to a ventilator. They are also more likely to die from the disease and have a higher chance of preterm birth.
- People of color, those who are older or obese, and those with medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes have higher COVID risks while pregnant.
- If you are breastfeeding or pumping breast milk to feed your baby, vaccination is still recommended.
There are some people, pregnant or not, who should not take the COVID-19 vaccines. This includes people who have had severe allergic reactions in the past.
Myth: I shouldn’t get the vaccine if I am breastfeeding.
Fact: If you are breastfeeding or pumping breast milk to feed your baby, vaccination is still recommended.
Myth: Immunocompromised shouldn’t get the vaccine.
Fact: Immunocompromised patients are at increased risk for severe COVID-19. You should discuss this with your doctor.
New COVID-19 vaccines are now available by appointment only.
Adults and Children ages 12 and older*:
Schedule through MyChart or call 440-59-COVID (440-592-6843).
If you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine or any other immunizations, talk with your primary care provider.
You can also reach out to our Pharmacy at 216-957-6337 (MEDS).
*More information coming soon for patients 6 months to 11 years old
