COVID-19 Vaccines for Older Adults

What you should know about vaccines

You can protect yourself and those around you with a vaccination.
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective in preventing serious illness from COVID-19.
Depending on the type of COVID-19 vaccine you are receiving, you may need a second vaccination 3 or 4 weeks after your first vaccination.
The vaccines can't make you sick from COVID-19.

You may have side effects from the vaccine

Some people have side effects after vaccination. Common side effects are:

Pain, redness or swelling where you will receive your injection
fatigue
headache
muscle pain
chills
fever
Nausea

These are normal signs that your body is building up protection against COVID-19. Learn more about what to expect after receiving your COVID-19 vaccine.

Booster shots and additional cans

A booster vaccination is given when a person has completed their first series of vaccinations and protection against the virus has diminished over time. Certain groups of people, including older adults, are entitled to a booster vaccination at least 6 months after completing their first series of vaccinations. Find out more about who is eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccination.

An additional dose is given when a person may not have developed the same immunity to their initial series of vaccinations as a person who is not immunocompromised. CDC recommends that people with moderately to severely compromised immune systems receive an additional dose at least 28 days after completing their first series of vaccinations. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines for moderately to severely immunocompromised people.

Vaccination certificate and booster vaccinations

At your first vaccination appointment, you should have received a vaccination card that tells you which COVID-19 vaccine you received, the date you received it and where you received it. Bring this vaccination certificate with you to your appointment for a booster vaccination.

Fast, easy, free, and nearby COVID-19 vaccination

The federal government provides the vaccine for free for everyone living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.

COVID-19 vaccines are free