COVID-19 Vaccine Information

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued Emergency Use Authorizations (EUA) to permit the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for people who are 16 years old and older and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for people who are 18 years old and older.

Lawrence General Hospital continues receiving limited quantities of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. The hospital is following the three-phase COVID-19 vaccine prioritization guidance from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. During Phase One of the distribution plan, we continue vaccinating health care workers with the priority being frontline workers in patient facing areas of the hospital. Beginning January 11, 2021, the hospital expects to receive addition doses and will begin expanding vaccinations to first responders and other health care professionals in Essex County.

While Phase One focuses on high-risk, front line health care workers, Lawrence General Hospital is eager to receive additional shipments of approved vaccine and looks forward to providing the vaccine to vulnerable populations and other people included in Phase Two and Phase Three of the state’s vaccination plan once supply allows. We continue to maintain close contact with state public health officials on their long-term plans for vaccinating people included in Phase Two and Phase Three. To find out when you may be able to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, visit Mass.gov/COVIDvaccine.

Vaccine Information from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

When can I get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Learn where you will fit into the state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution timeline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the COVID-19 vaccine

Common questions about Massachusetts’s planning and preparation for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Massachusetts COVID-19 Vaccination Program

View the latest updates about COVID-19 vaccine in Massachusetts.

Stay Vigilant

While the COVID-19 vaccine is a positive step in the battle against COVID-19, at the same time, we must continue to take the steps that have proven effective in limiting the spread of COVID-19. This includes masking, social distancing, avoiding group gatherings, hand washing and staying home when ill. We must remain vigilant – to protect ourselves and our must vulnerable community members.

COVID-19 Testing Information

All residents of Massachusetts have access to COVID-19 testing as part of Governor Baker’s Stop the Spread Testing Initiative. Click here to learn more.

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

Who gets vaccinated first in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts residents will get the vaccine in phases. The federal government has recommended – and the Massachusetts COVID-19 Advisory Group has agreed – that first doses of vaccine (Phase 1) will go to people at highest risk for COVID-19 including health care workers, residents and staff of congregate care settings including nursing homes, and first responders.

In February 2021, early education, K-12, transit, grocery, utility, food and agriculture, sanitation, public works and public health workers will be eligible to receive the vaccine. Adults over 65 years of age and individuals with co-morbid conditions that are high risk complications with COVID-19 will also be eligible.

The general public (those not falling into one of the higher risk categories) is not expected to be offered the vaccine until April 2021.

Once available, where can I go to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

The COVID-19 vaccine is not available to the general public, yet. Once the vaccine is widely available you can check with your primary care provider. Information will also be available on the Massachusetts DPH website.

Will I have to pay for the vaccine?

The vaccine is being provided free of charge to all individuals by the federal government. Insurance companies are also committed to not charging any out-of-pocket fees or co-payments.

How is the vaccine administered?

It is an injection into a muscle in your upper arm with 2 doses. For Pfizer, the two doses are given 21 days apart with a grace period of 4 days. For Moderna, the two doses are given one month apart. There is not enough data on safety and efficacy for either vaccine to be taken together.

Are there any side effects from the vaccine?

Mild side effects: Fever less than 100 degrees, muscle ache, headache.
Moderate side effects: Fever more than 101 degrees, muscle ache, headache.
Mild allergy such as itching and redness at the injection site.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell, these are not side effects of the vaccine and could be symptoms of COVID-19. Please call your primary care office if you experience any of these symptoms for risk assessment and testing.

Please seek urgent medical care for moderate to severe allergy after injection; symptoms include wheezing, facial swelling, throat closing, trouble breathing, chest pain/palpitations, or dizziness.

What if I have a respiratory condition like asthma?

Yes, individuals with chronic illness were part of the clinical trials and the vaccine was recommended.

Can I take the vaccine if I have an immunocompromising condition, pregnant, or breastfeeding?

Yes, if you have no other contraindications to vaccine. However, there is no data on safety and efficacy. You may want to discuss with your medical provider.

Can I take the vaccine if I have diabetes or a heart condition(s)?

Yes, people with chronic illness were part of the clinical trials and the vaccine was recommended.

Will the vaccine cure the COVID-19 virus?

No, the vaccine may prevent you from getting the virus, but neither will actually cure the virus. You should wear your mask, practice social distancing, and continue active hand washing after receiving the vaccine.

How long will the vaccine protect me from COVID-19?

We don’t know how long the immunity lasts at this time.

Can I go to my primary care doctor to get the vaccine?

No, not at this time.

Will the vaccine make you infertile?

No.

Will either vaccine permanently change your DNA?

No.

Does the vaccine have a 5G Chip?

No, this is false information.