August 27, 2021

To find an appointment near you, use the Vaccine Finder.

    

Text your zip code to GETVAX (438829) for English, or VACUNA (822862) for Spanish and receive three possible vaccination sites in your area, with phone numbers to call for an appointment.

   

If you need help, call the PA Department of Health Hotline at 1-877-724-3258.

   

   

Pfizer’s COVID-19 Vaccine is First Fully Approved by FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has fully approved Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for individuals 16 years of age and older. The vaccine will now be referred to by its brand name, Comirnaty. 

   
In Pennsylvania, we are celebrating the first COVID-19 vaccine to receive full approval from the FDA. It is an important milestone in our fight against COVID-19. Hundreds of millions of people have already safely received authorized COVID-19 vaccines, but we know there are many who have been waiting for full approval from the FDA before getting theirs. With today’s announcement, we hope Pennsylvanians who were previously hesitant are now ready to get their vaccine.

   
The Pfizer vaccine will continue to be available under emergency use authorization for those 12 to 15 years old, and as third doses for people who are immunocompromised. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson’s vaccines will continue to be available under emergency use authorization.

      

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Vax Facts: Community Conversations about COVID-19

COVID-19 vaccines are new, so it’s normal to have questions about them. Access to reliable, trusted sources can help you make the best decision for you and your family. 

   
That’s why on Sept. 2 at 12 PM, the PA Commission for Latino Affairs is honored to convene a panel of leaders from the Latin American community and Pennsylvania-based medical professionals to answer questions related to the vaccines, information privacy, and safety concerns. 

   
The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Natalia Ortiz, Temple University Hospital/Lewis-Katz Temple School of Medicine. 
Have questions? We have answers! Submit questions in advance to VaxFacts@pa.gov. 

    

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Free COVID-19 Vaccines at Fairs

You can get a COVID-19 vaccine at the below fairs. No registration is needed. Clinics have been scheduled for the following dates and times at:

   

•    Luzerne County Fair, Sept. 9 from 6 PM to 9 PM, Sept. 11 from 2 PM to 6 PM, and Sept. 12 from 2 PM to 5 PM
•    Albion Area Fair (Erie County), Sept. 18 from 1 PM to 3 PM

    

Additional COVID-19 vaccination clinics at fairs are currently being planned. Fairs interested in offering a COVID-19 vaccination clinic should contact the PA Department of Health to discuss the possibility of setting up a clinic.
           

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Starting School with Vaccines

The CDC recommends everyone 12 years and older should get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against the virus.  Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your child from getting sick with COVID-19. All three authorized COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Currently, children 12 years and older can get the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Your child will need a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine three weeks after their first shot. 

   
COVID-19 vaccines have been used under the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history, which includes studies in adolescents. To find out more about COVID-19 vaccines for children and teens, please visit the CDC’s website. 

   

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Question of the Week

  

Should my child get a COVID-19 vaccine?

   

The CDC recommends everyone 12 years and older should get a COVID-19 vaccine to help protect against the virus.  Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself and your child from getting sick with COVID-19. All three authorized COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Currently, children 12 years and older can get the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Your child will need a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine three weeks after their first shot. 

   
COVID-19 vaccines have been used under the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history, which includes studies in adolescents. To find out more about COVID-19 vaccines for children and teens, please visit the CDC’s website. 

   

Have more questions? Check out our Vaccine FAQs.
             

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