Recently, a nationwide vaccination scheduling hotline was set up, and can be reached at 800-232-0233. More, it covers all 50 states.
We first published this story May 10.
Please share this number with others.
NPR reports that the call center provides information on local clinics that give the shots. In fact, a live operator will schedule a vaccination locally for you. Also the hotline is multilingal, able to communicate in English, Spanish and other languages. More, they also provide a TTY line for the hearing impaired.
There is no cost for the shot. Also, you likely will need to get a second sjot several weeks after the first.
Vaccines are Key
COVID-19 is a vaccine-preventable disease. More, adults in the United States can now get a free vaccine regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.
Vaccines are safe and effective. Also, while some “breakthrough cases” do occur, vaccines substantially curb their symptoms.
Here are our key health messages on vaccines:
Vaccines Protect the Person Receiving it
Vaccines help to protect us from the virus. This is key. More, you are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after completing your second dose.
Vaccine Protect Others, too
Vaccines also protect others. More, it is important to remember that some cannot receive it, including children. Also you can be infected with it but show no symptoms, but still can spread it to others.
Please get vaccinated. And encourage others, too.
Previous Infection will not Protect you
If you previously had the virus, you still would need the shot. And here is why.
First, it is unclear how long immunity lasts. We wrote a number of articles documenting reinfection. And that is because there are new strains. More, viruses mutate over time. Thus, the strains currently being spread are different from the strains from last year.
So even if you had the virus, you can potentially get it again.
Second, it protects others. Early evidence shows vaccinated individuals are less likely to spread the virus to others. And remember, not everyone is eligible to receive it.
How to get Vaccinated
There are several options, and the shot is available in many stores and clinics. Here are some methods:
Schedule by Phone
Schedule by calling 800-232-0233. Also, it covers all 50 states.
Schedule Online
Another alternative is to schedule online at Vaccines.gov. Moreover, it covers all 50 states.