Vaccines have been around for decades and are crucial to fighting deadly infectious diseases such as COVID-19. All Pennsylvania residents ages 5 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Primary Health Network is administering the Moderna vaccine for those 18+, and the Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5-11.

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How does the COVID-19 vaccine work?

In general vaccines work to give instructions for our cells to make a harmless piece of what is called the "spike protein", which is found on the surface of the viruses such as COVID-19.

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are given in the upper arm muscle. Once the instructions (mRNA) are inside the immune cells, the cells use them to make the protein piece. After the protein piece is made, the cell breaks down the instructions and gets rid of them.

Next, the cell displays the protein piece on its surface. Our immune systems recognize that the protein doesn't belong there and begin building an immune response and making antibodies, like what happens in natural infection against COVID-19.

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Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?

Yes. The U.S. vaccine safety system ensures that all vaccines are as safe as possible. The COVID-19 vaccine has been held to the same rigorous safety and efficiency standards as all other types of vaccines.

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Will the COVID-19 vaccination will help protect me from getting COVID-19?

COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting people from COVID-19 and help keep adults and children from getting seriously sick. They can also reduce the risk of people spreading the virus that causes COVID-19.

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What are some potential side effects to the COVID-19 vaccination?

The side effects from COVID-19 vaccination may feel like flu and might even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days. This is a normal sign that your body is building protection.

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Could I have an allergic reaction to the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Allergic reactions were uncommon during COVID-19 vaccine trials. However, all recipients receiving the vaccine, are required to be monitored for at least 15 minutes after vaccination for any possible reactions. If you have a history of allergic reactions to vaccines, please talk to your healthcare provider before receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.

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Can I receive the COVID-19 vaccine if I’m pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive?

Yes. The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future.

People who are pregnant may also receive a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot.

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If I've had COVID-19 should I get vaccinated?

Based on the recommendation from the CDC, those who have had COVID-19 should still receive the vaccine. If you were treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma, you should wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

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Can a COVID-19 vaccine give you COVID-19?

No. The COVID-19 vaccines currently being developed in the U.S. don't use the live virus that causes COVID-19.

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CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Page

Which of the COVID vaccines are being offered at Primary Health Network?

At Primary Health Network, we are offering the Moderna vaccine for those 18+, and the Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5-11.

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What ages has the Moderna vaccine been authorized for?

Those individuals 18 years of age and older.

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How many doses of the mRNA (Moderna and Pfizer) vaccines are required?

Two doses are required. When we call to schedule your first vaccine with us, we will also schedule you for your second dose. You must receive the second dose 26-30 days after the first dose.

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If I received my first dose of vaccine from somewhere else, can I work with PHN to receive my second dose?

Yes. You may either schedule online or call 724-699-9211, option 3.

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Are the vaccines interchangeable?

For individuals completing their primary series with mRNA vaccine, they should receive two doses of the same product. Once they’ve completed their primary series and if they’re eligible for a booster dose, they may receive any one of the three available products.

It is important to note that a person who received one J & J is considered fully vaccinated. A single booster dose may be given no sooner than 2 months after the single dose of J & J. No additional booster doses would be appropriate afterwards, according to the current Emergency Use Authorization criteria.

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What should I bring with me to my vaccine appointment?

A pre-visit registration will be sent to you directly via text message or email one day prior to your appoi ntment. Please be sure to complete the patient pre-visit registration to ensure timely access to your appointment. Along with the pre-visit check-in, we ask that you also bring the following items with you on the day of your appointment:

• Proof of Identification
• Insurance Card
• If receiving your second dose, please be sure to bring your vaccination card

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If I recently received another vaccine, can I schedule for my COVID vaccine?

Yes. COVID-19 vaccines may be administered without regard to timing of other vaccines. This includes simultaneous administration of COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines on the same day.

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Is PHN offering access to the third dose to immunocompromised individuals?

Yes, PHN will offer the third dose to those considered to be immunocompromised.

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Who are considered to be immunocompromised?

Those considered to be immunocompromised include people who:

• Are undergoing cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood.
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last two years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
• Were born with or developed moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency, such as DiGeorge syndrome or Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome.
• Have advanced or untreated HIV infection.
• Are on active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress their immune responses.

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Is there a cost to receive the third dose?

There is no cost to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. If you have insurance, we will bill an administration fee to your insurance company. However, this does not result in any out of pocket cost for you.

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What is the difference between a third dose and a booster shot?

The third dose is exactly that - an additional dose of the vaccine for some immunocompromised individuals to help them generate a stronger immune response similar to what most people get with just two doses.

A booster dose is given to people whose immune response has weakened over time. According to the CDC, immunity from some vaccines can wear off, and at that time, a booster dose would be required. The dosage may be different than what people first received.

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What is the eligibility for booster doses?

• Pfizer- 16 and older, at least six months after completing your primary series
• Moderna-18 years and older, at least six months after completing your primary series
• Johnson & Johnson- 18 years and over, at least two months after completing your primary series