COVID-19 vaccines

What you need to know

UCare wants to make sure you have the information you need about COVID-19 vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the available COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Getting the vaccine is the best way to get back to doing what you love to do, while keeping you, your family and your friends safe. Please check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if the COVID-19 vaccine is right for you. UCare covers the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost to you.

COVID-19 vaccines are not directly available through UCare. Please visit the Minnesota Department of Health website, contact your doctor's office or visit your clinic or pharmacy's website for information on how to get the vaccine.

Source: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) (Pub. L. 116-127)

COVID-19 vaccine facts

1. COVID-19 vaccines will not give you COVID-19. They will immunize you from COVID-19
2. COVID-19 vaccines will not cause you to test positive for COVID-19
3. Everyone should get vaccinated, including people who have had COVID-19
4. If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have symptoms, talk to your doctor about when you should get the vaccine
5. If your vaccine requires two shots, it is important to get your second shot to have the full protection of the vaccine
6. After completing the vaccine, it will take about two weeks for your body to build immunity to COVID-19
7. After you get the vaccine, it is important to continue to follow government and medical expert recommendations on social distancing and mask wearing.

 

COVID-19 vaccine side effects

You may experience minor side effects such as arm soreness, muscle aches, headache or chills. These side effects are a sign that your body is responding correctly to the vaccine and building immunity to COVID-19.

If you experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of your face and throat, fast heartbeat, rash all over your body, dizziness or weakness, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Minnesota Department of Health