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COVID-19 Vaccine Information
Who is Eligible?
As of May 13th, San Franciscans ages 12+ can receive the COVID-19 vaccine!
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If you are under 18, you're only eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine. A parent or guardian must come with you to your appointment.
What to Expect When Getting the Vaccine
Before Vaccination
1. See if you're eligible to receive the vaccine. Check above!
2. Learn about the different vaccines. Find out how they work, and know the benefits of receiving the vaccine.
3. Be prepared. Wear a mask while receiving the vaccine, and stay six feet away from others while in the clinic.
When You Get Vaccinated
1. You will receive a vaccination card that will tell you which vaccine you received and where you received it.
2. You will receive a fact sheet that tells you about the specific COVID-19 vaccine you're being offered.
3. You will be monitored on-site after receiving the vaccine, for 15-30 minutes. Allergic reactions are very rare, but possible.
After Vaccination
Plan to receive your second dose. Most COVID-19 vaccines require two doses in order to be completely effective.
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Pfizer vaccine: Receive your second dose 21 days after your first.
Moderna vaccine: Receive your second dose 28 days after your first.
Johnson & Johnson: Only requires one dose.
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Minor side effects are common, and nothing to worry about. Common side effects include:
On your arm: ​​
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Pain
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Swelling
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To help, apply a wet washcloth over the area, or exercise your arm.
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Headache
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Chills
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Throughout your body:
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Fever
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Tiredness
To help, drink plenty of water, and talk to your doctor about taking over-the-counter medicine.
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When to call your doctor
In most cases, fever and pain are normal. Call your doctor if:
The redness or tenderness where you received the shot increases after 24 hours.
Your side effects do not seem to be going away after a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the vaccine work against the new variants?
YES. Vaccines are still expected to be mostly effective at preventing the spread of new COVID-19 variants.
However, some variants may be more vaccine-resistant. Because of this, companies like Moderna are planning to release booster shots to help protect against B.1.351 and other variants.
Am I protected after my first shot?
IT'S COMPLICATED. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is fully effective after just one shot.
Even for vaccines that require two shots, studies have shown that just one shot decreases COVID-19 infections by 75%. However, receiving both shots is MUCH BETTER, reducing your chances of contracting COVID-19 by 95%.
Can I get COVID even after receiving both shots?
YES (but it's very unlikely). It takes about 14 days for the second dose of the vaccine to kick in, and the vaccine is not 100% effective, so it is possible to get COVID-19 after your second shot.
If you do contract COVID-19 after your second dose, your symptoms will be much milder.
Can you spread COVID-19 after you're vaccinated?
IT'S COMPLICATED. We are still learning. According to the CDC, vaccinated individuals can still "carry" the virus without symptoms.
This means it may be possible to spread COVID-19 to others. Once you're vaccinated, it is important to still wear a mask and social distance to protect those in your community that are not vaccinated.
I am fully vaccinated. Can I start seeing people again?
IT'S COMPLICATED. The CDC recently released guidelines saying that vaccinated individuals may visit small groups of other vaccinated individuals without masks or social distancing.
Because it is unclear if vaccinated individuals can still spread the virus, it is important to wear a mask and social distance even after you're vaccinated.
Can I take my medication before getting vaccinated?
YES. If you take medication regularly, it is safe to take it before receiving the vaccine.
However, some immune system-suppressing medication may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. Talk to your doctor for more information.
Do NOT try to suppress vaccine side effects by taking over-the-counter medication like Advil before receiving the vaccine. If you take these medications regularly for other reasons, it is safe to continue to take them.
Where can I sign up to get vaccinated in SF?
You can sign up at this site to get notified when it's your turn to get vaccinated.
Or visit here to find a convenient vaccine location and book an appointment. Some local pharmacies and private healthcare providers also provide vaccines.
Remember: Receiving a vaccine is FREE!
You can ride MUNI for free to your vaccine appointment by showing proof of your appointment to the driver
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