What is a vaccine?

A shot that gives your body medicine. It helps your body fight illnesses that can make you sick, like COVID-19. Getting the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting the virus that causes COVID-19. A doctor or nurse also called a healthcare professional will give you your vaccine.

Is it safe?

The government tested COVID-19 vaccines on many people of different ages and backgrounds. They feel it’s safe for most people. Getting the vaccine will not give you COVID-19. The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting sick.

Is there more than one kind of vaccine?

Two vaccines are approved for the United States. One is from a company called Moderna and the other is from a company called Pfizer/BioNTech.

How much does it cost?

It will be free for most people but there may be a fee for giving the shot. Check with your healthcare professional to see if you have to pay a fee.

If I’ve already had COVID-19, do I still need a vaccine?

Yes. You can get COVID-19 again even if you’ve already had it. The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting it again.

How many shots do I need?

Most people need two (2) shots about three (3) weeks apart. Without the second shot, your body won’t be able to fight the virus as well as it should. The person giving you your shot will tell you when to get your second one. Both shots need to be the same vaccine.

When will I get one?

Companies are working hard to make enough vaccines for everyone. The Government and the State of Nevada created a plan for who gets the vaccine and when. You can see the plan at https://www.health.nd.gov/covid-19-vaccine-information. People who are more likely to get sick from COVID-19 will get the vaccine first. The goal is for everybody to get a vaccine this summer. Healthcare professionals will let you know when it’s your turn to get the vaccine.

What happens when I get my first shot?

Wear your mask! The person giving you your shot will watch you for 15 minutes to make sure you’re ok. You will get a card telling you what vaccine you had, where you had it, and when to get your next one. You should also get information for v-safe, a free smartphone tool to check-in on you after you get the vaccine, and remind you to get your second shot. You do not have to enroll in the v-safe program.

How will I feel after the shot?

Your arm may be sore, you might get a headache, fever, sore muscles, or be tired for a couple of days. These are called side effects. They are normal and mean that your body is working to build up protection against the virus. Get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first one unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to.

How long will it take to work?

It usually takes a few weeks to build up protection, or immunity. You can still get sick or make someone else sick during that time so it’s important to wear your mask, wash your hands and stay at least 6 feet away from others until doctors tell you not to.

What happens if I miss my second shot?

You can still get your second shot. Contact the place that gave you your first shot right away and they can help get you scheduled for your second shot.  

Talk to your healthcare professional to get all the information you need to make the best decision for you!

Some questions to ask your doctor about the vaccine:

• Is it safe for me?
• When will I get it?
• Where do I go to get it?
• How will I feel after?