COVID-19 Vaccine

Santa Rosa Community Health will be vaccinating our patients in alignment with county and state guidelines, as quickly as vaccine is available. We are dedicated to making sure everyone, regardless of status or insurance, gets their shot as soon as possible. It’s important to know the facts about the vaccine and be ready.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

When and where will I get my vaccine?

If you are a patient of Santa Rosa Community Health you will be receiving a call from your provider to schedule your visit.  The COVID-19 vaccine is being given in phases based on your age, risk, and exposure factors. [insert phase graphic]

At this time, we ask that you keep your appointment and do not bring others who do not have an appointment. If you have to reschedule your appointment or are not ready to get the COVID-19 vaccine there will be another opportunity to receive your COVID-19 vaccine.

How much will the vaccine cost and will my insurance cover it?

There is NO cost for the COVID-19 vaccine. We are working together to end the global pandemic and no one will be denied the vaccine.

• SRCH patients, people on Medi-Cal, Medicare or uninsured, can get their vaccine at Santa Rosa Community health.
• People with private insurance who are not SRCH patients can get it from their primary care provider.
• The county, health centers, and hospitals are also working together on community vaccine clinics. These will still be prioritized on risk factors like age, health conditions and exposure risk. Learn about the County plans here.

Why is it important to get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine, reduces your chances of getting sick from COVID-19, is a safe way to build protection from the virus, and is an important tool to help stop the pandemic. It is the most important tool we have to be beat the COVID-19 pandemic together.

What are the side effects of the vaccine?

• Short-term Side Effects: The vaccines may cause side effects in some people, like sore muscles, feeling tired, or mild fever. These reactions mean the vaccine is working to help teach your body how to fight COVID-19 if you are exposed. For most people, these side effects will last no longer than a day or two. Having these types of side effects does NOT mean that you have COVID-19.
• Long-term Side Effects: So far no long-term effects have been observed. 
• Allergic Reactions: Though rare, people with a prior history of a severe allergic reaction to injections such as vaccines do have an increased risk for severe allergic reactions from this vaccine too. If you are someone who has had an allergic reaction previously, consult with your doctor.

Will the vaccine protect me from getting sick with COVID-19?

Yes, studies show that COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19. Experts also think that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19. These vaccines cannot give you the disease itself.

How many shots of the COVID-19 vaccine will I get?

Different types of COVID-19 vaccines will be available. Most of these vaccines are given in two shots, one at a time and spaced apart. The first shot gets your body ready. The second shot is given at least three weeks later to make sure you have full protection. If you are told you need two shots, make sure that you get both of them. The vaccines may work in slightly different ways, but all types of the vaccines will help protect you.

If I already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I still need to get vaccinated?

Yes, due to the severe health risks associated with COVID-19 and the fact that re-infection with COVID-19 is possible. It is recommended that you get the vaccine after you are no longer in isolation.

At this time, experts do not know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. The immunity someone gains from having an infection, called natural immunity, varies from person to person. Some early evidence suggests natural immunity may not last very long.