The NYCHA Journal

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NYC Vaccine For All: Safe, Free, Easy
COVID-19 Top Story 

Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine for Back-to-School

Michael

Q&A with Health Commissioner Dr. Dave A Chokshi and Schools Chancellor Meisha Ross Porter

Why is August 9 an important date for students, parents, and guardians?

If your child is 12 or older, August 9 is the last day to get their first vaccine dose in time to be fully vaccinated for the opening day of school. The vaccine for adolescents involves a two-dose regimen, and it takes two weeks after receiving the second shot to be considered fully vaccinated. Our message to parents, guardians, and young people is clear: Get your first vaccination shot by Monday, August 9 to be fully protected by the first day of school on Monday, September 13. If you can’t get your first dose before August 9, we encourage all eligible people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Are school staff required to be vaccinated by the first day of school? 

Last week, Mayor de Blasio announced that staff must show proof of vaccination on the first day of school or take weekly COVID-19 tests. That is essential to keep our staff, school communities, and loved ones protected from COVID-19. Every single vaccination counts. The more New Yorkers who get vaccinated, the more lives we will save, and the closer we will be to returning to our normal lives again.

Can children take the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines?

Right now, the Pfizer vaccine is the only vaccine approved for children ages 12 to 17, although the Moderna vaccine is expected to be authorized for adolescents in August. Adults 18 and older can choose from all three vaccines: Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson. The City is working to make vaccination simple, safe, and easy. Vaccination at City sites are given for free, regardless of immigration status. Nearly all New Yorkers live within half a mile of a public vaccination site, and everyone is eligible to request and receive at-home vaccinations.

Will I need to provide consent for my child to be vaccinated?

For children ages 12 to 17, parents or guardians must provide consent in person, over the phone, or in written form. An adult must accompany anyone ages 12-15 to the vaccination.

Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause side effects or health problems?

The COVID-19 vaccine is safe. Nearly 5 million adult New Yorkers – and over 250,000 young people ages 12 to 17 – have safely received the vaccine. Common side effects can include soreness or swelling from the shot, headache, fever, nausea, and muscle aches. More severe complications are extremely rare. We know that the benefits of getting the COVID-19 vaccine far outweigh any risk, particularly with more contagious variants of the virus spreading in New York City.

Where can I get information about the COVID-19 vaccine?

We encourage everyone to speak to your health care provider, pediatrician, family members, and friends about the vaccine if you have any questions. For anyone who doesn’t have a regular health care provider, you can call 1-844-NYC-4NYC and be transferred. The New York City website has the latest information about COVID-19, school reopening, where to get vaccinated, and how to get tested for the virus. And many local health clinics and community centers have pamphlets and flyers with helpful information.

How can I make an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Getting the vaccine is easier than it has ever been. Here is some useful information:

  • Vaccines for New Yorkers ages 12 and up are available at hundreds of locations in all five boroughs, including H+H hospitals, mobile sites, and pharmacies and community clinics. The City is also offering a new $100 incentive for anyone (including children) who gets their first dose at a City-run site!
  • While vaccine sites throughout the City accept walk-ups, you can make an appointment at vaccinefinder.nyc.gov, or call the vaccine center at 877-VAX-4NYC to arrange for free, round-trip transportation to a vaccine site.
  • Everyone is eligible to request and receive at-home vaccinations – and you can choose Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson. Register for an appointment at nyc.gov/homevaccine or call 877-829-4692.
  • Parents or guardians can also check with their pediatrician or health care provider to see if they have the Pfizer vaccine.