Gov. Jim Justice, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the West Virginia Joint Inter Agency Task Force for COVID-19 Vaccines announced that 14 COVID-19 vaccine clinics will be held this week through Operation Save Our Wisdom. This week’s clinics are available for West Virginians who are 70 years of age and older.
Friday, January 15, 2021
FULL - Cabell County
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Highlawn Community Building, 2788 Collis Avenue, Huntington 25702.
Hancock County (includes Brooke County)
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Weirton High School Gymnasium, 100 Red Rider Road, Weirton, WV 26062. By appointment, Brooke County residents: call 304-737-3665; Hancock County residents: call 304-564-3343.
Kanawha County
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Cabin Creek Clinic at Riverside High School, 1 Warrior Way, Belle, WV 25015. By appointment, call 304-734-2040 (may begin calling at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday for an appointment) or email covid-19vaccine@cchswv.org. This location is open to those 80 years of age and older and is not limited to Cabin Creek participants.
The COVID-19 Vaccine is currently being distributed in West Virginia. Our state is dedicated to ensuring that all West Virginians have access to a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible. Vaccination is one of the strongest tools we have in the fight to slow the spread of coronavirus and ultimately stop the pandemic. Getting vaccinated helps protect the health and wellbeing of our communities, and community immunity starts with you. Please check back to this page frequently for updates as new information is received around the COVID-19 vaccine.
When Can I Get the Vaccine?
Information as of 1/10/2021. Vaccine distribution is a dynamic process and this document will be updated as new information becomes available.
80 years of age and older population
There will be ongoing supply of vaccines available through local health departments for West Virginians age 80 and older. Health departments will individually announce availability and locations for vaccinations. If individuals in this age category are patients at a Community Health Center (also known as Federally Qualified Health Center), they will be contacted by that center regarding access to a COVID-19 vaccine. Moving forward there will be additional providers offering vaccine to this population and that information will be relayed through various communication means when supply increases.
As vaccine supply increases, there will be more vaccines available to the general population based on age. Once vaccines are available at locations throughout West Virginia, they will be distributed on a first come, first served basis and those locations will be announced at that time. We appreciate your patience with this process as the state has worked to equitably and efficiently distribute our allocation of COVID-19 vaccines.
When will the 70 (also applicable 60, 50, 40, 30, 20) years of age and older population be able to get vaccines? Same response applies to those with comorbidities.
West Virginia is dedicated to ensuring that all West Virginians have access to a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible based on the recommendations outlined by U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and our own epidemiological data. As soon as vaccines are available for your population, it will be announced by the Governor and additional details will likely be shared by your local health department through a variety of communication means.
Healthcare worker (Physician's office, medical clinic, Dentists, physical therapists, occupational therapy, etc.)
For private practice offices: Communication on vaccine allocation and timelines for your organization will come directly from your respective board (Board of Medicine, Board of Osteopathic Medicine, Board of Dentistry, etc). Please see the process for vaccine allocation and registration document, which is also available on the coronavirus.wv.gov for additional information on the process.
Community Health Centers/ Federally Qualified Health Center: receive information from the West Virginia Primary Care Association.
Healthcare professionals who work at a hospital system are likely to receive vaccine through their hospital. Those individuals will receive information from their hospital system. For more information on the Vaccine Administration Management System:
For more information on the Vaccine Administration Management System: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/reporting/vams/faqs.html.
Other healthcare worker that may not fall under category above
Communication on vaccine allocation and timelines for your organization will come directly from your respective board, association, or employer. Currently, vaccine supplies are slowly increasing in West Virginia. As that takes place, more doses are being shared with healthcare locations throughout the state. It is not possible to give an accurate timeline as to when your location or facility will receive the vaccine, but you remain in the highest priority category in the State's COVID-19 vaccination plan. Maintain regular contact with your facility/location for important details on when the vaccine may be offered.
Retailers/manufacturing
Communication on vaccine allocation and timelines for your organization will come directly from your respective association (retailers association, OMEGA, etc). If you do not hear directly from them, we urge you to reach out to them for details as the state will not be managing the vaccine process at that level. They can also reach out to the JIATF Joint Information Center at ng.wv.wvarng.mbx.covid-jic@mail.mil.
School faculty and staff 50 years of age or older
The WV Department of Education will be managing the vaccine distribution process for school faculty and staff through the local superintendents. Specific details related to when and where teachers can receive a vaccine will be handled by their respective superintendents.
School faculty and staff who are under the age of 50 will be offered vaccine(s) at a later date in the State's phased COVID-19 vaccination plan.
When will the general public be able to get a vaccine?
The guiding principles in decision making for allocating the limited supplies of vaccines include protecting the most vulnerable West Virginians, reducing hospitalizations, reducing the rate of deaths, and ensuring the state and local communities can maintain critical services including our acute care system. West Virginia is dedicated to ensuring that all West Virginians have access to a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible and will expand access to additional population groups as vaccine supply increases. Our earliest estimate is that we can begin to offer vaccines to the entire general public in March. As soon as vaccines are available for this population, it will be announced and additional details be made available.
How to schedule a vaccination appointment?
For phase 1 priority occupations, such as healthcare professionals
The Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS) is an easy-to-use, secure, online tool to manage vaccine administration from the time the vaccine arrives at a clinic to when it is administered to a person. VAMS is free for approved clinics and can be used on computers, tablets, and other mobile devices. It is not a smartphone app; no installation or download is required for this web-based platform. VAMS allow clinicians to set up customized vaccine schedules and allow recipients to make vaccination appointments, in addition to sending a reminder about returning for a second dose.
West Virginians identified to be in a Phase 1 priority occupation, such as a healthcare worker, will use VAMS to schedule their vaccination appointment. After you have been identified by your employer or signed up through your respective board, phase 1 participants will receive an email from no-reply@mail.vams.cdc.gov indicating you are now eligible to schedule the vaccination appointment. Sometimes, these emails can be filtered into an individual's junk or clutter box, it is important to check spam/junk folder for this email if you believed you should have received one to ensure it wasn't discarded improperly.
In the VAMS system, eligible vaccine recipients will be asked to select a vaccine appointment time and location. It is critical that you select the appropriate location based on guidance and instructions from your employer or board or corresponding agency. For example, if you are a private practice physician and told to schedule at a pharmacy, you must select a pharmacy. Moving forward, this will expand as vaccine supply and administration locations increase. Until then, it is important to read instructions prior to scheduling an appointment to ensure your appointment is not cancelled.
For more information on VAMS: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/reporting/vams/faqs.html
What if there are no available appointments or locations near me when I go to schedule my appointment?
In the VAMS system, eligible vaccine recipients will be asked to select a vaccine appointment time and location. It is critical that the recipient select the appropriate location based on guidance and instructions from your employer or board or corresponding agency. If there are no available locations initially, first try to extend the search radius as the default is 10 miles. By extending the search radius, available appointments/locations may be identified.
I am a phase 1 priority occupation and have not received the email from VAMS?
Phase 1 participants will receive an email from no-reply@mail.vams.cdc.gov indicating you are now eligible to schedule the vaccination appointment. If you do not receive an email but believe you are eligible, first communicate with your board or employer to ensure your name and email address was properly documented.
If you believe you should have received an email from VAMS, it is important to check spam/junk folder for this email to ensure it was not discarded improperly.
There is a limited supply, so although you may have submitted the information, your group may not yet be eligible based on supply. West Virginia is dedicated to ensuring that all West Virginians have access to a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible. The state is urging patience for all those waiting. As West Virginia receives more vaccine supply, there will be more access to the vaccine. We appreciate your commitment to protecting West Virginia.
Long term care facility residents and staff?
This information is coordinated through the long term care facility through coordination with the West Virginia Healthcare Association. Questions should be directed to the long term care facility or the WV Healthcare Association.
For persons eligible for vaccination based on age?
80+ population: will be contacted by an FQHC or can sign up at a local health department or visit a first come, first serve vaccination event at a local health department.
Health departments utilize a number of methods for communication about upcoming vaccination clinics including social media, radio, television, print and word of mouth. It is always best to call first to verify availability before showing up at a local health department.
At this time, this particular population is not using VAMS to schedule appointments, and the scheduling will be done by the FQHC or local health department.
What is West Virginia's vaccination plan?
The guiding principles in decision making for allocating the limited supplies of vaccines include protecting the most vulnerable West Virginians, reducing hospitalizations, reducing the rate of deaths, and ensuring the state and local communities can maintain critical services including our acute care system.
- Initially vaccines were offered to those in long term care and assisted living facilities - including staff and residents, pharmacists, healthcare workers in hospital ICUs, emergency rooms and COVID-19 wards, as well as first responders.
- As vaccine allocations are increasing, the plan has expanded to include various phases in 1 A-D and portions of the most vulnerable of the general population (those above age 80 currently).
- West Virginia's vaccination plan overlaps between the various sections in Phase 1 A-D which are located on vaccinate.wv.gov.
Click here for an Overview of the Vaccine Allocation and Registration Process for Priority Groups in Overlapping Phases 1A-D
Frequently Asked Questions
Click to Expand
+ COVID-19 Vaccination Basics
What role do COVID-19 vaccinations play in helping to curb the pandemic?
COVID-19 vaccinations will help protect ourselves and others from the disease and save lives. Vaccines both prevent and reduce the severity of disease. Vaccines provide immunity without the serious risks associated with getting infected naturally. Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce the chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others but these measures are not enough. The COVID-19 vaccines are designed to work with our immune systems so the body will be ready to fight the virus if we are exposed to the virus.
If a large enough proportion of a community becomes immune to COVID-19 through vaccination, it can reduce the spread of the disease to others.
Are the COVID-19 vaccines safe?
Yes. COVID-19 vaccines have been evaluated in tens of thousands of individuals who volunteered to participate in clinical trials according to rigorous Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards, the same ones that have been applied to other vaccines currently in use for years. The information from these clinical trials allowed the FDA to determine that the newly authorized COVID-19 vaccines meet its safety and effectiveness standards; therefore, the FDA has made these vaccines available for use in the United States under what is known as an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the FDA will continue to monitor the safety of the vaccines now that they are in use.
How effective will the vaccines be for disease prevention?
When the vaccine was given to tens of thousands of individuals who volunteered to participate in clinical trials (phase 3 clinical trials), the COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized for use are highly effective in preventing COVID-19.
In Phase 3 trials, the Pfizer vaccine showed a 95% efficacy rate seven days after the second dose. The Moderna vaccine showed a 94% efficacy rate 14 days after the second dose.
These results for both vaccines were consistent across gender, age, race, and ethnicity.
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) work?
The vaccines contain synthetic mRNA, which is genetic information used to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The spike protein is the part of the virus that attaches to human cells. The spike protein alone cannot cause COVID-19.
Once the spike protein is created, it causes the immune system to make antibodies against the virus. These antibodies can then provide protection if a person comes into contact with the virus.
Since the vaccine does not contain any virus, it is not possible to spread COVID-19 from receiving the vaccine. The mRNA does not enter the center of the human cell where DNA is made (the nucleus); so, it cannot alter the genetic material of the cell (DNA). The mRNA is rapidly broken down, making the chance for long-term side effects less likely. The mRNA vaccines do not have the ability to cause cancer.
Learn more here: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/downloads/healthcare-professionals-mRNA.pdf
Can I get COVID-19 from a vaccine?
No. None of the COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized for use or in development in the United States use the live virus that causes COVID-19.
Although some symptoms from general reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine (side effects), including fever, body aches, and headaches-which last 1-2 days- are the same as those of a COVID-19 infection, this does not mean the vaccine causes infection but that the immune system is working.
It usually takes a few weeks for the body to build immunity after receiving the second dose of the vaccine. That means it's possible for an individual to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 if exposed just before or just after vaccination. The vaccine itself does not cause infection.
What is an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)?
During a public health emergency, the FDA can use a process called "Emergency Use Authorization" (EUA) to allow the use of medical products that are not yet approved to diagnose, treat, or prevent serious or life-threatening diseases when certain criteria are met.
Several additional COVID-19 vaccines are currently being developed and tested for their safety and effectiveness in clinical trials (efficacy). Once vaccine manufacturers submit for authorization, the FDA evaluates the EUA request and determines whether they are safe and effective, taking scientific evidence into account. For a vaccine to receive an EUA, the FDA must determine if the vaccine's benefits outweigh its risks based on data from rigorous clinical trial(s).
Additional information on EUAs: https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/vaccines/emergency-use-authorization-vaccines-explained
How does the FDA Assess Safety and Effectiveness of a COVID-19 Vaccine Submitted for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)?
COVID-19 vaccines are undergoing a rigorous development process that includes tens of thousands of study participants to gather required safety and efficacy data, in the same way as many other currently approved vaccines. The FDA evaluates the information submitted by a vaccine manufacturer and uses all available tools and information, including records reviews, site visits, and previous manufacturing compliance history.
For an EUA to be issued, the FDA must determine that the known and potential benefits outweigh the known and potential risks of the vaccine.
Link: https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/vaccines/emergency-use-authorization-vaccines-explained
Which COVID-19 vaccines have been authorized for use by the FDA?
At this time, there are two COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use by the FDA. The Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine received FDA authorization December 11, 2020 for individuals ages 16 and older. It is a 2-dose vaccination series, given intramuscularly, recommended at least 3 weeks apart. For the full FDA statement on the authorization of this vaccine: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-key-action-fight-against-covid-19-issuing-emergency-use-authorization-first-covid-19
The Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccine received FDA authorization December 18, 2020 for individuals 18 and older. It is a 2-dose vaccination series, given intramuscularly, recommended at least 1 month apart. For the full FDA statement on the authorization of this vaccine: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-additional-action-fight-against-covid-19-issuing-emergency-use-authorization-second-covid
Why is vaccine development happening so fast?
The vaccine process is happening faster because vaccine research and development, clinical trials, manufacturing, and plans for distribution have occurred at the same time. This method removes delays that occur when these processes are carried out one after the other. Steps to ensure safety are NOT being eliminated.
Which COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be available first?
 Why do we need a vaccine if we can take other COVID-19 precautions, like masking and physical distancing, to slow or prevent the spread?
It is vital that each person uses all tools available to stop the pandemic. Vaccines work with the immune system and allow a strengthened response to the virus if exposure occurs.
Other steps, like covering the mouth and nose with a mask, washing hands, and staying at least 6 feet away from others, help reduce chances of exposure to the virus or spreading it to others. Together, COVID-19 vaccination and following recommendations for self-protection and to protect others will offer the best prevention for further spread of COVID-19. For more information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html
+ Before Getting Vaccinated
Should I take COVID-19 vaccines if I have a significant history of allergic reactions?
This section addresses contraindications and precautions to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Individuals with allergy questions or concerns should consult a health care provider.
Contraindication to vaccination:
Contraindications are conditions or factors that would be a reason to not get vaccination due to harm.
The only current contraindication to receiving the COVID-19 vaccine is anaphylaxis to any components of the COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccines are still being studied in pediatric populations and those under 16 years of age (Pfizer) or 18 years of age (Moderna) are not currently eligible for vaccination.
The following fact sheets contain additional information about who should not receive the vaccine.
Pfizer-BioNTech Fact Sheet for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers: https://www.fda.gov/media/144414/download
Moderna Fact Sheet for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers: https://www.fda.gov/media/144638/download
The following ingredients list is a screen shot from: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/acip/meetings/downloads/slides-2020-12/slides-12-19/06-COVID-Mbaeyi.pdf
 Precaution to vaccination:
Precautions are conditions or factors that would be a reason to consult with a health care provider before proceeding with vaccination. Vaccine providers should observe these patients for 30 minutes after vaccination to monitor for the development of immediate adverse reactions.
The CDC considers a history of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any other vaccine or injectable therapy (e.g., intramuscular, intravenous, or subcutaneous) as a precaution but not a contraindication to vaccination. These persons may still receive vaccination but should be counseled about unknown risks of developing a severe allergic reaction and balance these risks against the benefits of vaccination. All vaccinators will have the medication they need, and the training, to respond to an allergic reaction if one occurs.
No contraindication or precaution:
There are allergies that do not constitute a contraindication or precaution to vaccination, including:
- History of food, pet, insect, venom, environmental, latex, or other allergies not related to vaccines or injectable therapies
- History of allergy to oral medications (including the oral equivalent of an injectable medication)
- Non-serious allergy to vaccines or other injectables (e.g., no anaphylaxis)
- Family history of anaphylaxis
- Any other history of anaphylaxis that is not related to a vaccine or injectable therapy
For rare instances when individuals experience immediate allergic reactions, appropriate medical treatments are available (and are mandatory on site) to manage the symptoms. Clinical considerations are available here: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/pfizer/anaphylaxis-management.html
Are children and adolescents recommended to receive COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer and Moderna) vaccines?
Children/adolescents under age 16.
COVID-19 vaccines are not recommended for children/teens under age 16 (Pfizer) or under age 18 (Moderna) at this time. In early clinical trials for various COVID-19 vaccines, only adults who were not pregnant participated. Older children (12 and up) were added in later trials. However, clinical trials continue to expand and include other groups.
Adolescents age 16 and older.
Individuals aged 16-17 years are eligible to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines (but not the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at this time). No safety concerns were identified in this group during Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 clinical trials. Although vaccine safety and efficacy data in this age group are somewhat limited, there is no medical reason to believe that responses from this group would be different from those who are 18 years of age and older. Adolescents aged 16-17 years who are part of a group recommended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine may be vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.
Should I take the vaccine if I am immunocompromised?
Currently, there is no data on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in immunocompromised people. However, persons with immunocompromising conditions or who take immunosuppressive medications or therapies might be at increased risk for severe disease if they get COVID-19. Therefore, the CDC recommends these individuals receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Immunocompromised individuals should discuss this with a healthcare provider. It is important to note that the mRNA vaccines do not contain live virus; so, it is not possible to develop COVID-19 from vaccination.
Should I take the vaccine if I am pregnant?
Currently, there is no data on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant women. However, people who are pregnant who become infected with COVID-19 can have an increased risk of severe illness or negative pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth. Based on current knowledge, experts believe that mRNA vaccines are unlikely to pose a risk for people who are pregnant. Reputable sources, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, have advised that the benefit of vaccination may outweigh the risk of severe COVID-19 disease. For this reason, if a person who is pregnant is part of a group who is recommended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, they may choose to be vaccinated. A discussion with a health care provider can help make an informed decision. Although a conversation with a healthcare provider may be helpful, it is not required prior to vaccination.
Should I take the vaccine if I am breastfeeding?
If someone who is breastfeeding is part of a group who is recommended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, they may choose to be vaccinated. Currently, there is no data on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in breastfeeding women as they were excluded from clinical trials. However, the CDC has stated that since the mRNA vaccine does not contain live virus, it is not thought to be a risk to breastfeeding infants. A discussion with a health care provider can help to make an informed decision. Although a conversation with a healthcare provider may be helpful, it is not required prior to vaccination.
Are the mRNA vaccines safe for a people who want to become pregnant?
There is no evidence the COVID-19 vaccine affects fertility. People who are trying to become pregnant or who are pregnant and for whom the vaccine is recommended may choose to be vaccinated. A discussion with a health care provider can help to make an informed decision.
More information from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine is available here: https://www.asrm.org/news-and-publications/news-and-research/press-releases-and-bulletins/asrm-issues-statement-on-covid-19-vaccines-joins-other-obgyn-groups-on-community-wide-statement/
Should I take the vaccine if I have had convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibody?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that vaccination should be deferred until 90 days after receiving convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibodies. Currently, there is no data on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines in people who received convalescent plasma or monoclonal antibody therapy. This is to avoid interference of these treatments with vaccine-induced immune responses. The risks and benefits of vaccination based upon the underlying risk factors, including living in a nursing home, could be considered. A discussion with a health care provider can help make an informed decision.
Should I take the vaccine if I already had COVID-19 and recovered? How long after should I take it?
Vaccination should be offered to individuals regardless of history of COVID-19 (symptomatic or asymptomatic). The length of immunity after recovering from COVID-19 is unknown; early studies show that it is not long lasting and rare cases of reinfection have been reported. The CDC states current evidence suggests reinfection is uncommon within 90 days after initial infection, so vaccination could be deferred until the end of this period; however, given initially limited supply of vaccines, it is not certain when another opportunity for vaccination will be available to you.
Testing specifically to determine whether a person has active or prior COVID-19 infection is not recommended solely for the purpose of vaccine decision-making.
Should I take the vaccine if I currently am infected with COVID-19?
No. Those infected should wait until they have recovered from the acute illness (if the person had symptoms) and criteria have been met for them to end their isolation to avoid exposing healthcare personnel (HCP) or other persons during the vaccination visit. Getting the vaccine while infected is not expected to harm you but leaving isolation will put others in danger of getting a COVID-19 infection.
Should I get the vaccine if I am in quarantine?
Individuals in a community or outpatient setting should defer vaccination until quarantine period has ended to avoid exposing healthcare personnel (HCP) or other persons during the vaccination visit.
Residents of congregate healthcare settings (e.g., long-term care facilities) may be vaccinated, as this likely would not result in any additional exposures. HCP are already in close contact with residents and should employ appropriate infection prevention and control procedures.
Residents of other congregate settings (e.g., correctional facilities, homeless shelters, residential settings) may be vaccinated, in order to avoid delays and missed opportunities for vaccination. Where possible, precautions should be taken to limit mixing of these individuals with other residents or non-essential staff.
How long after the flu shot or other vaccines do I have to wait to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
COVID-19 vaccines should be administered alone, with a minimum interval of 14 days before or after receiving any other vaccines. The safety or efficacy of taking the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccines is currently unknown. If COVID-19 vaccines are inadvertently administered within 14 days of another vaccine, doses do not need to be repeated for either vaccine.
Should premedication be given prior to vaccination?
Taking medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen before receiving the vaccine to try to prevent symptoms like fever or pain is not recommended at this time. This is because there is not enough information on how pain-relieving medications will impact immune responses. These medications may be taken after receiving the vaccine for the treatment of symptoms.
+ Getting Vaccinated
What is the Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS)?
The Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS) is an easy-to-use, secure, online tool to manage vaccine administration from the time the vaccine arrives at a clinic to when it is administered to a person. VAMS is free for approved clinics and can be used on computers, tablets, and other mobile devices. It is not a smartphone app; no installation or download is required for this web-based platform.
West Virginians in Phase 1 will use VAMS to schedule their vaccination appointment. Phase 1 participants may receive an email from no-reply@mail.vams.cdc.gov to schedule the appointment. Appointments may also be scheduled by an employer or long-term care facility.
VAMS will allow clinicians to set up customized vaccine schedules and allow recipients to make vaccination appointments, in addition to sending a reminder about returning for a second dose.
For more information on VAMS: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/reporting/vams/faqs.html
When will I get the vaccine?
After receiving FDA authorization for use in the U.S., Pfizer and Moderna vaccines began arriving in West Virginia in early-mid December. West Virginia is dedicated to ensuring that all West Virginians have access to a COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible. The guiding principles in decision making for allocating limited supplies include reducing hospitalizations, reducing the rate of deaths, protecting the most vulnerable West Virginians, and ensuring the state and local communities can maintain critical services.
The initial focus in vaccine distribution is to take care of the most vulnerable West Virginians. Vaccines will be in limited supply initially, so the first phase will be distributed to individuals in high-risk settings such as healthcare, emergency response, long-term care facilities, and community infrastructure. This approach is imperative to preserve critical infrastructure, such as making sure the West Virginia's healthcare system can meet the state's needs.
As West Virginia receives more vaccine supply and has vaccinated those identified for Phase 1, vaccinations will be made available for the general public. Decisions on moving to the next phase are made at a state/local level. Phases may overlap. It is not necessary to fully complete vaccination in one phase before beginning the next phase.
To view the state's phased allocation plan: https://dhhr.wv.gov/COVID-19/Pages/Vaccine.aspx
How is the COVID-19 vaccine administered?
COVID-19 vaccines are given through intramuscular (IM) injections, typically in the upper arm. Each person receives the recommended dose set forth by the manufacturer.
Who will administer the COVID-19 vaccine?
The vaccine will be administered by a health care professional trained in giving an injection into the muscle.
How long between mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses? What happens if I'm late for the second dose?
Pfizer-BioNTech. The Pfizer product requires a 2-dose vaccination series administered three weeks (21 days) apart. Administration of second dose is allowed within a 4-day grace period (meaning days 17-21) or after. If more than 21 days have passed since the first dose, the second dose should be administered at the earliest opportunity.
Moderna. The Moderna vaccine requires a 2-dose vaccination series administered one month (28 days) apart. Administration of second dose is allowed within a 4-day grace period (meaning days 24-28) or after. If more than 28 days have passed since the first dose, the second dose should be administered at the earliest opportunity.
For 2-dose vaccines, what happens if I only receive one dose of the vaccine and not both?
It is recommended to receive both doses of the vaccine for maximum protection.
Can I get one dose of one mRNA vaccine (e.g., Pfizer) and the second dose of another mRNA vaccine (e.g., Moderna)?
Individuals should receive the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine from the same manufacturer as the first dose. The COVID-19 vaccine products are not interchangeable. The safety and efficacy of mixing products in the vaccination series have not been evaluated. As further information becomes available and other vaccine types are authorized, recommendations may be updated.
How will the second dose of the vaccine be ensured?
The Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS) will allow clinicians to set up customized vaccine schedules and allow recipients to make vaccination appointments, in addition to sending a reminder about returning for a second dose.
Is taking the COVID-19 vaccine mandatory?
The vaccine is not mandatory.
+ After Getting Vaccinated
What are common side effects or immune responses after receiving mRNA COVID-19 vaccines?
Short-Term: The majority of short-term effects reported in clinical trials were mild to moderate and occurred within the first few days of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Examples of common mild to moderate immune responses include pain at the injection site, headache, fatigue, fever, or chills. The occurrence of such physical responses is typically higher after the second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Long-Term: Historically, long-term side effects from vaccines have been rare and most side effects have been seen within the first 60 days of receiving vaccines.
Before vaccination, COVID-19 vaccine recipients should be counseled about expected local (e.g., pain, swelling, erythema at the injection site) and systemic (e.g., fever, fatigue, headache, chills, myalgia, arthralgia) post-vaccination symptoms.
What is the V-safe after vaccination health checker?
V-safe is a smartphone-based tool that uses text messaging and web surveys to provide personalized health check-ins after a person receives a COVID-19 vaccination. Through V-safe, a person can quickly tell the CDC if they experience side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Depending on the person's responses, a CDC staff member may call for additional information. V-safe also sends reminders to get the second COVID-19 vaccine dose. Participation in the CDC's V-safe initiative makes a difference - it helps keep COVID-19 vaccines safe.
For more information on V-safe: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety/vsafe.html
Should side effects from COVID-19 vaccines be reported? What is VAERS?
Individuals concerned about their health after getting vaccinated should talk with a health care provider, who will determine the appropriate treatment and reporting requirements. Vaccination providers are required to report certain adverse events or incidences after vaccines are administered. Anyone also can choose to report a side effect. Reporting is encouraged for any other clinically significant adverse event, even if it is uncertain whether the vaccine caused the event.
Reports can be made to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS): https://vaers.hhs.gov/.
If I develop COVID-19 symptoms after getting the vaccine, should I quarantine?
Yes. It typically takes a few weeks for the body to build immunity after the second dose of the vaccine. That means it is possible a person could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 just before or just after vaccination and get sick as the vaccine has not had enough time to provide protection for disease.
Individuals who have COVID-19 virus symptoms after getting the vaccine or at any time should contact a health care provider and consider getting tested for COVID-19.
Do I need to quarantine if I am exposed between doses?
If exposure occurs between doses, follow quarantine guidance as advised by the local health department.
Quarantine is used to keep someone who might have been exposed to COVID-19 away from others. Quarantine helps prevent spread of disease that can occur before a person knows they are sick or if they are infected with the virus without feeling symptoms.
How long will immunity last after I get vaccinated? Will I need to be vaccinated every year?
The length of immunity following vaccination is not yet known for COVID-19.
Do I still need to wear a mask and take other COVID-19 precautions after I get the vaccine?
Yes. Wearing a mask, washing hands, and staying at least 6 feet away from others will remain important after receiving the vaccine. Since there will be limited doses available initially, and people will be vaccinated in phases, it will take time to vaccinate enough of the population to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Additionally, as the length of immunity is unknown, infection after a receiving a vaccine may still be possible. It is likely that infection after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine would be less severe, with mild or asymptomatic conditions.
Other factors for continuing precautions include how many people get vaccinated and how the virus is spreading in West Virginia communities.
How many people need to get the vaccine for community immunity (herd immunity)?
Vaccination is the safest path to community or "herd" immunity. These terms describe when enough people have protection, either from previous infection or vaccination, making it unlikely an infection can spread in the population and cause disease. As a result, everyone within the community is protected, even if some people have not received the vaccination. The percentage of people who need to have protection in order to achieve community immunity varies by disease and with the use of other measures to limit spread like social distancing and mask use. The number, or percentage of population, that need to be immune in order to reach community immunity for COVID-19 is not yet known but is thought to begin at around 60-70%.
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This information is based on currently available evidence, resources, information, emergency use authorization, and expert opinion, and is subject to change. As evidence regarding the use of COVID-19 vaccine for individuals emerges, it will be necessary to modify this document.
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