What You Need to Know About COVID-19 and Vaccines

There’s a lot of information out there about the COVID-19 virus, so it’s important to stay up-to-date. The best way to prevent illness and slow down transmission is to be aware of the disease and how it spreads. Learn more about COVID-19, find out who’s most at risk, and get smart tips on what you can do to keep yourself and your family safe. If you want to find a vaccine or booster near you, we can help with that, too.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious disease. For most people, it causes mild to moderate respiratory illness. The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe.

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough and fatigue. Other symptoms can include loss of taste or smell, nasal congestion, red eyes, sore throat, headache, muscle or joint pain, different types of skin rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, dizziness and fatigue.

Who’s most at risk?

Even though the disease is mild for most, some infected people will become seriously ill and require medical attention. According to the CDC, older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart disease, lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19.

Should I get a booster shot?

The CDC recommends that people ages 6 months and older receive 1 updated (bivalent) booster if it’s been at least 2 months since their last COVID-19 vaccine dose. Even if you received more than 1 original (monovalent) booster, it’s recommended to get an updated (bivalent) booster.

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine and booster?

The pharmacy and clinic are here to help with COVID-19 prevention and care. Talk to your pharmacist, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or make an appointment for a vaccine near you. COVID-19 vaccines are free to all people living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status. If you need help finding another vaccine site, vaccines.gov can help you find a convenient location.

_{Disclaimer: This information is educational only and not providing healthcare recommendations. Please see a healthcare provider.}