Frequently Asked Questions
- Anyone over the age of 12 should get the vaccine. For those who are 12-17 years of age, they can only get the Pfizer vaccine. It is the best way to protect yourself and your family from COVID.
- AHS is currently administering the Moderna vaccine. On select days and locations, AHS is also administering the Pfizer vaccine. Please call our COVID Helpline to find out which days (510)735-3222.
- It offers great protection. Compared to the annual flu vaccine, it is twice as effective.
- Yes, it is safe. While it is a new vaccine, over 10 million doses have already been given and bad reactions are extremely rare.
- If you are allergic to polyethelene glycol (Miralax), you should not get the current COVID vaccine.
- If you develop immediate allergic reaction (hives, wheezing) to the first COVID vaccine, you should not get the 2nd shot.
We are reserving your spot in the waitlist and will call or text you when appointments become available based on your eligibility and our vaccine supply.
Patients must have an appointment to receive their COVID-19 vaccination.
- After the second dose, there is a high chance of side effects similar to a flu vaccine (arm soreness, muscle aches, headache, tiredness) for a few days. This is expected and can be a good sign that your immune system is working.
- You can get the vaccine. Please discuss this with your doctor first if you still have concerns.
The current vaccine is free. Alameda County is currently working with the state and local clinics like AHS and local pharmacies to provide the vaccine to our community. We will notify you when we are ready to make your vaccine appointment
Eligible patients will get a phone call, text, or letter from AHS. For the Moderna vaccine, we will book 2 appointments for the 2 shots, 28 days apart. For the Pfizer vaccine, we will book 2 appointments, 21 days apart.
Since our vaccine supply is limited, If you are being offered a vaccine appointment, please take it.
No, vaccinations are administered based on the eligibility of the scheduled person. Please add yourself to the vaccine waitlist on our website.