COVID-19 Vaccine

COVID 19 Vaccine

Latest Update 

On May 10, 2021, Pfizer received FDA approval under Emergency Authorization Use (EUA) to expand vaccination to children ages 12-15 based on new trial data. Ochsner Health is now scheduling for anyone ages 12 years or older to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children will only recommend and administer vaccines that the Food and Drug Administration has certified as safe and effective for all patients and employees, including our most vulnerable populations. The benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh the risks of forgoing immunization for your child. Data specific to the 12-15-year-old group shows 100% efficacy, robust antibody responses and was well tolerated.

Consent by a parent or guardian is required for anyone under 18. Consent can be provided through MyOchsner, during ePreCheck, through a witnessed legal consent form, or in person at the vaccination location.

In accordance with Louisiana's mask mandate, Ochsner Health still requires the use of masks at all hospitals and clinics.

Vaccine Appointments Available Now

We are offering scheduling for new first dose appointments at select locations on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Anyone age 18 years or older is eligible for all COVID-19 vaccines and anyone who 12 years or older is eligible for the Pfizer vaccine in Louisiana.

MyOchsner users can check availability and schedule their vaccinations via MyOchsner. If you have never been to an Ochsner location before and do not have a MyOchsner account, you can sign up at my.ochsner.org, visit Ochsner.org/appointment-availability or call 1-844-888-2772. Appointments are encouraged and walk-ups are welcome.

MyOchsner  Call 1-844-888-2772

Community Vaccination Events

Get the latest schedule of vaccination events.

Vaccine Events  View Vaccine Availability

We appreciate your willingness to be part of the solution as we work together to end this pandemic. 

Answers to your Frequently Asked Questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine

Pfizer Vaccine for Ages 12 - 15

  • Does Ochsner recommend teenagers age 12-15 receive the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes, Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children continue to encourage all eligible community members to get the COVID-19 vaccine to protect themselves and others and ultimately end this pandemic.
    • The vaccine is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics which says “the COVID-19 vaccine is our best hope for ending the current pandemic” and urges youths and adults to get the vaccine as soon as it is available to them.
    • Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children participated in the adolescent Pfizer 12-17-year-old vaccine trial, which means our patients contributed to the safety data submitted to FDA.
    • Data specific to the 12-15-year-old group shows 100% efficacy, robust antibody responses and was well tolerated.

  • Why should my teenager get the COVID-19 vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Although children and teenagers are at less risk of severe complications from COVID-19, the virus has still seriously impacted millions of children and teens across the globe.
    • Children and teenagers who have COVID-19 may have no symptoms but are still able to transmit the virus to their parents, grandparents, teachers, friends and loved ones.
    • Vaccinating children and teens for COVID-19 should be treated just like any other routine vaccination. In the same way that children are vaccinated for the measles, mumps and chicken pox, they should also be vaccinated for COVID-19.

  • Can my child get the vaccine without my knowledge? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No, as with any vaccination, it is required that a child under the age of 18 must have parental or guardian consent.

  • How do I give my consent? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Consent by a parent or guardian is required for anyone under 18. Consent can be provided through MyOchsner, during ePreCheck, through a witnessed legal consent form, or in person at the vaccination location.
    • Please note, if your child does not already have a MyOchsner account, you must fill out a request form which has a turnaround time of 1 to 3 days.
      • If the custodial parent has a MyChart account, they can request access online using the form under the Main Menu >> Sharing >> Request Access.
      • If the custodial parent does NOT have a MyChart account, they can click here to sign up and put in a request. They will receive a notification and an email with this information as well.

  • Where can my child get the COVID-19 vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children have plenty of availability across the system! We offer vaccinations at our hospitals, retail pharmacy locations, mass vaccination sites and community vaccine events across the state. We continue to add more locations and events each week to make it as convenient as possible for your child to receive the vaccine.
    • You can schedule your child’s vaccination appointment via MyOchsner or by calling 1-844-888-2772. You can also check out open vaccine appointments at Ochsner.org/appointment-availability.
    • Please note, if your child does not already have a MyOchsner account, you must fill out a request form which has a turnaround time of 1 to 3 days.
      • If the custodial parent has a MyChart account, they can request access online using the form under the Main Menu >> Sharing >> Request Access.
      • If the custodial parent does NOT have a MyChart account, they can still click here to sign up and put in a request. They will receive a notification and an email with this information as well.

  • Is the Pfizer vaccine FDA-approved for ages 12-15? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Pfizer recently received FDA approval under Emergency Authorization Use (EUA) to expand vaccination to children ages 12-15 based on new trial data.
    • Just like the three vaccines currently being administered under EUA, the FDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have assured the public that no safety or efficacy evaluation steps have been skipped in approving the vaccine.
    • Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children remain committed to educating our patients about the COVID-19 vaccines so they can make informed decisions for themselves and their family.

  • When did the Pfizer vaccine become available to teenagers 12-15? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The FDA amended the EUA originally issued on December 11, 2020 to include adolescents 12 – 15 years of age on May 10, 2021.
    • The Pfizer vaccine is now available for teenagers ages 12-15. You can schedule your vaccination appointment via MyOchsner or by calling 1-844-888-2772. You can also see which Ochsner regions across the state have vaccine availability.

  • Why is Pfizer the only vaccine EUA-approved for children under age 16? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Pfizer completed its adolescent trial for children ages 12-17 earlier this year. Results from the trial for children ages 16-17 showed the vaccine is safe and effective and granted EUA approval on December 11, 2020.
    • The results of Pfizer’s 12–15-year-old age group shows 100% efficacy, robust antibody responses and was well tolerated. Based on both sets of successful results, Pfizer again applied for EUA status which was granted on May 10, 2021.

  • Is this Pfizer vaccine different from the vaccine given to adults? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No, it is the same two-dose regimen currently being administered to those who are ages 16 and older. Data specific to the 12-15-year-old group shows 100% efficacy, robust antibody responses and was well tolerated.

  • Is the dosage the same as the adult vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes, the same dosage is the same for all adolescents and adults ages 12 and older.

  • Will my child require a booster/third shot of the Pfizer vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • At this time, there is no indication that a third shot is needed. There are currently ongoing trials reviewing a potential booster/third shot for adults.
    • Your child will need to receive two doses, scheduled 21 days apart, to be fully effective and provide the most protection.

  • What were the results of the Pfizer clinical trial (ages 12-15)? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Trial data presented in the EUA demonstrated 100% efficacy, robust antibody responses and was well tolerated in children ages 12-15.

  • Will Moderna offer a vaccine for the 12-15 age range? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Moderna completed its COVID-19 vaccine trial for children ages 12-15 in February 2021 and anticipates results for this trial by mid-year.

  • Why has it taken longer for a vaccine to be approved for children? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The vaccine was studied in adults first before expanding to include younger age groups.
    • In October 2020, Pfizer received approval to enroll children as young as 12 into the trial. The results of Pfizer’s trial in the 12 to 15-year-old age group show the vaccine was 100% effective against COVID-19 and was well tolerated.
    • And, Ochsner Health participated in the adolescent Pfizer vaccine trial, which means our patients contributed to the safety data submitted to FDA.

  • How do you know this is safe for my teenager? plus_icon minus_icon

    • As a destination for pediatric care, Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children are committed to playing a key role in identifying a safe and effective vaccine for the benefit of all – including adolescents.
    • Ochsner Health participated in the adolescent Pfizer 12-17-year-old vaccine trial, which means our patients contributed to the safety data submitted to FDA.
    • Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children will only recommend and administer vaccines that the Food and Drug Administration has certified as safe and effective for all patients and employees, including our most vulnerable populations. The benefits of vaccination greatly outweigh the risks of forgoing immunization for your child. Data specific to the 12-15-year-old group shows 100% efficacy, robust antibody responses and was well tolerated.

  • My child has (insert medical condition). Can they get the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Following guidelines from the FDA EUA, no one is excluded from receiving the vaccine. The only medical contraindications to receiving this vaccine are severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccine or severe allergic reaction to components of this vaccine.
    • It is important to have this discussion with your pediatrician to determine if this is the best decision for your child.

  • If my child already had COVID-19, do they still need the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes. There is not enough information currently available to say how long after infection someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again. To stop this pandemic, we need to use every tool available which includes immunization, social distancing, handwashing and wearing masks.

  • Can my child get routine vaccinations (flu, tetanus, boosters) with, or within a short timeframe of, their COVID-19 vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The CDC now recommends that other vaccines can be given with the COVID-19 vaccine.
    • It is important that children who may have missed doses of routine vaccines during the pandemic complete or catch up with these routine immunizations.

  • Can you offer this in my pediatrician’s office? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Ochsner Health and Ochsner Hospital for Children have plenty of availability across the system! We offer vaccinations at our hospitals, retail pharmacy locations, mass vaccination sites and community events across the state. Due to the temperature and other preparation requirements to properly dispense the COVID-19 vaccine, Ochsner Hospital for Children is not currently administering the COVID-19 vaccines at pediatrician offices. We continue to add more locations and events each week to make it as convenient as possible for your child to receive the vaccine.

  • Why do kids need to be vaccinated? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Children can become infected and transmit to other people as well as be symptomatic or asymptomatic just like adults.
    • · While a child’s risk of dying from COVID-19 is very low — under 0.03 percent -- the most common complication of the disease is multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C).

  • Once my child is vaccinated, does he/she still need to wear a mask to school? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes. Though Gov. John Bel Edwards partially lifted Louisiana’s statewide mask mandate, masks are still required in schools, hospitals, clinics and other specific locations.
    • We must all continue to wear masks until we reach herd immunity, which occurs when enough people become immune to a disease to make its spread unlikely.

  • Where can I find more information about the Pfizer vaccine for youth aged 12-15? plus_icon minus_icon

  • Could my child experience side effects similar to the adult side effects? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Pfizer reports the side effects found in children during its trial were generally consistent with those found in adults immediately following vaccination.
    • As is the case with any vaccine, allergic reactions may occur. Some may experience mild fever, soreness, muscle aches, headaches, chills, tiredness and redness or swelling at the site of administration. These are signs of an immune response to the vaccine and are expected in some patients.
    • It is common for children to experience fever after any vaccination; this is an anticipated side effect.

  • When should I call the doctor? plus_icon minus_icon

    • While extreme serious reactions to the vaccine are rare, you should seek medical care if:
      • Your child experiences a severe allergic reaction (call 911 or go to the nearest ER)
      • The side effects do not seem to be going away or are getting worse after a few days.

  • Should I give my child acetaminophen or ibuprofen before the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • We do not recommend pre-treating your child with pain or fever reducers because it may weaken your child’s immune response to vaccines.
    • After the vaccine, you may give your child a pain or fever reducers if needed.

  • If I had a strong reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine, is it more likely that my child will as well? plus_icon minus_icon

    • While every individual is unique, there are no indications that reactions run in families.

  • Could this hinder my child’s development, cause concerns with puberty or affect my child’s future fertility? plus_icon minus_icon

    • There is no evidence that the COVID-19 vaccine affects child development, puberty or fertility.

J&J Vaccine

  • Why did the FDA and CDC pause the administration of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • On April 13, federal health agencies called for an immediate pause in use of Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose COVID-19 vaccine after eight recipients in the United States developed a rare blood clot disorder, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, within two weeks of vaccination.
    • This decision was made so that it could be investigated to determine if there is a correlation between the vaccine and this medical condition.
    • On April 23, these federal health agencies recommended resumed use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in the United States.
    • Click here to view the J&J EUA fact sheet

  • Did Ochsner pause the use of the J&J vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The safety of our patients and community is our highest priority. At the recommendation of CDC and FDA, Ochsner Health paused J&J vaccine effective immediately. We will continue to follow CDC and FDA guidance.
    • On April 23, these federal health agencies recommended resumed use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine in the United States.

  • Can I choose whether I get Pfizer, Moderna or J&J? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes. When you book your vaccine, you will be able to choose which vaccine you would prefer, and available appointments will show for that vaccine only.
    • The type of vaccine available at each site is dependent upon supply.

  • Did CDC and FDA recommend the pause be lifted for J&J vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes, on April 23 FDA and CDC determined that the recommended pause regarding the use of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S. should be lifted and use of the vaccine should resume.
    • The FDA and CDC have confidence that this vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19.

  • What is the difference between the J&J vaccine and the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are two shots each – one shot followed by a booster either 19 - 23 or 26 - 30 days later depending on the vaccine. Each uses mRNA, or messenger RNA, which gives cells instructions to create a protein like the SAR-CoV2 protein. Once the protein is created, it triggers the immune response leading to the production of antibodies.
    • The J&J vaccine uses one shot. It utilizes the adenoviruses which are the same viruses that can cause the common cold. These inactivated/non-infective adenoviruses can be used to deliver DNA, which are instructions for proteins. For the COVID-19 vaccine, researchers swap in a gene from SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) so that the modified cold virus makes the SARS-CoV2 protein, stimulating production of antibodies and additional immune responses to fight off the virus. The process creates an immune memory, which ultimately teaches the body to both recognize and attack the virus.

  • Does the J&J vaccine have any side effects? plus_icon minus_icon

    • It is normal to have flu-like symptoms after being given a vaccination. They are reported be generally mild to moderate, resolving within 1-2 days, with 1% to 2% reported as severe. View the list of potential side effects here.
    • People who have received the J&J vaccine who develop severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination should contact their health care provider.
    • There is an extremely remote potential of developing a rare blood clot disorder -- less than one case per million doses given -- called cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), within two weeks of vaccination.

  • What is CVST and how common is it? plus_icon minus_icon

    • CVST is a rare form of stroke, affecting 5 people in 1 million every year.

  • Am I at risk for developing CVST since I received the J&J vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Your likelihood of developing CVST is very low, but you should seek medical attention if you experience the severe symptoms listed above. The six patients who developed CVST experienced symptoms 6-13 days following their vaccinations. Although significant side effects are rare, it’s recommended that you share you’ve recently been vaccinated with doctors if you are seeking treatment.

  • What should someone do if they experience severe symptoms within 3 weeks of the J&J vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • It is normal to have flu-like symptoms after being given a vaccination. People who have received the J&J vaccine who develop severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, or shortness of breath within three weeks after vaccination should contact their health care provider.

Vaccine Scheduling

  • How can I schedule? plus_icon minus_icon

    • MyOchsner users can schedule their vaccinations via MyOchsner or by calling 1-844-888-2772. You can also see which Ochsner regions across the state have vaccine appointments at Ochsner.org/appointment-availability.
    • If you have never been to an Ochsner location before and do not have a MyOchsner account, we encourage you to enroll at Ochsner.org/myochsner. This is a secure portal that allows patients to schedule appointments at the click of a button.
    • Patients receiving Pfizer or Moderna vaccines will schedule their first dose via MyOchsner or by calling 1-844-888-2772. Your second dose is guaranteed. Ochsner will notify you of the exact date and time of your second dose appointment via text and email within 24 hours of when your first dose is administered.
    • Once available vaccine slots are filled on MyOchsner, you will no longer be able to see the option to book.
    • More times and dates will become available as we receive more vaccine each week. We encourage you to continue to check MyOchsner and Ochsner.org/appointment-availability as more appointments become available and appreciate your patience during this process.
    • We appreciate your willingness to be part of the solution to end this pandemic.

  • Who can get the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Effective Thursday, May 13, anyone age 18 years or older is eligible for all COVID-19 vaccines and anyone who 12 years or older is eligible for the Pfizer vaccine in Louisiana.
    • Adolescent patients under 18 will be required to have a parent or guardian present when being immunized.

  • I’m an Ochsner patient and live in a different state. Can I still receive the vaccine since I met the criteria? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Anyone age 18 years or older is eligible for all COVID-19 vaccines and anyone who 12 years or older is eligible for the Pfizer vaccine in Louisiana.
    • We are scheduling new first dose appointments and also encourage you to check your state’s department of health website for vaccine availability and locations.

  • I can’t get through on MyOchsner/MyChart/the phone to make my appointment. What should I do? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Due to high demand, we are experiencing higher than normal call volume and MyOchsner activity due to community interest in the COVID-19 vaccine. MyOchsner users can schedule their vaccinations via MyOchsner or by calling 1-844-888-2772.
    • Once available vaccine slots are filled on MyOchsner, you will no longer be able to see the option to book.
    • We encourage you to visit the Louisiana Department of Health website at covidvaccine.la.gov for available vaccine locations across the state.
    • We also encourage you to continue to check MyOchsner as more appointments become available and appreciate your patience during this process. View vaccine availability.

  • I scheduled my first dose appointment. When is my second dose appointment? plus_icon minus_icon

    • If you are receiving a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, your second dose appointment will automatically be scheduled once you have received your first dose. It will be scheduled at the correct interval of time from your first dose: 19 – 23 days for Pfizer, or 26 - 30 days for Moderna, from your first dose.
    • Ochsner will notify you of the exact date and time of your second dose appointment via text and email within 24 hours of when your first dose is administered.
    • All second dose appointments will be administered at the same location as first dose appointments.

  • I don’t have an email address or phone that allows text messaging. How will I know when my second dose appointment is? plus_icon minus_icon

    • As with any appointment type, you can call our contact center at 1-844-888-2772 to verify the date and time of your second dose appointment.

  • I need to reschedule my second dose appointment. What do I do? plus_icon minus_icon

    • We ask that patients keep their second dose appointments as they are scheduled, but we understand that sometimes appointment times no longer work. If you must change your second dose appointment, please call 1-844-888-2772.

Vaccine Safety, Effectiveness and Side Effects Questions

  • What is the difference between each vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca/University of Oxford vaccines are two shots – one shot followed by a booster either 21 or 28 days depending on the vaccine. Each uses mRNA, or messenger RNA, which gives cells instructions to create a protein like the SAR-CoV2 protein. Once the protein is created, it triggers the immune response leading to the production of antibodies.
    • The Janssen vaccine uses one shot. It utilizes the adenoviruses which are the same viruses that can cause the common cold. These inactivated/non-infective adenoviruses can be used to deliver DNA, which are instructions for proteins. For the COVID-19 vaccine, researchers swap in a gene from SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) so that the modified cold virus makes the SARS-CoV2 protein, stimulating production of antibodies and additional immune responses to fight off the virus. The process creates an immune memory, which ultimately teaches the body to both recognize and attack the virus.

  • Is the vaccine safe? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Following guidelines from the FDA emergency use authorization (EUA), no one is excluded from receiving the vaccine as there are no medical contraindications except for a severe allergic reaction to this vaccine or any of its components.
    • Because the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses, MyOchsner or the COVID hotline will automatically schedule the second dose at the same location with the appropriate length of time (21 or 28 days depending on which vaccine you receive) between visits. You must be able to attend the second appointment in order to schedule the first.

  • What does vaccine efficacy mean? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Most commonly used in clinical trials, vaccine efficacy is a percentage measured by calculating the risk of disease among vaccinated and unvaccinated persons.
    • For example, vaccine efficacy of 90% means a 90% reduction from the number of cases you would expect if they have not been vaccinated.
    • Vaccine effectiveness is different and shows the ability of vaccine to prevent outcomes of interest in the “real world.”

  • If I participated in a vaccine trial, can I still get the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Each trial sponsor needs to review to see if any such potential process and amendment to the original protocol (where participants stay blinded for the 24-month duration of the study) would be subject to the input of the regulatory authorities.
    • If you are currently a participant in one of the Ochsner vaccine trials, please contact your study staff for more information.

  • Now that a vaccine is in emergency use, does that mean that vaccine trials have stopped? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No, the current vaccine trials will continue for the intended duration which for most trials is 24 months.
    • Additionally, we will see more trials for new vaccines and new targeted populations and these new potential trials will need research participants.
    • With more than 7 billion people in the world, more trials are needed to help vaccinate the entire world.

  • How long will the vaccine last? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Since this is a novel virus, we are still unsure how long the vaccine antibodies will last. We are closely monitoring the research as more data becomes available.

  • What are the possible side effects of the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Like the flu shot, the vaccine is administered into a large muscle in the upper arm. As is the case with any vaccine, allergic reactions may occur. Some may experience mild fever, soreness, muscle aches, headaches, chills, fatigue/tiredness, muscle or joint pain, redness and/or swelling at the site of administration. These are signs of an immune response to the vaccine and expected in some patients.
    • Based on data reported from the FDA emergency use authorization (EUA), possible side effects have been more prominent after the second dose of Pfizer or Moderna.
    • If you have pain or discomfort, you can take your normal pain reliever or talk to your pharmacist about taking an over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
    • To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot, you can apply a clean, cool compress over the area. To reduce discomfort from fever, drink plenty of fluids.

  • I take aspirin daily as part of my health regimen prescribed by my doctor. I read that you shouldn’t take Tylenol, aspirin or ibuprofen prior to receiving the vaccine. Does that mean I can’t receive the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • We recommend that people continue their routine medications as prescribed by their physician which may include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Patients who have one of the CDC-listed underlying medical conditions and are prescribed NSAID by their physicians, are not excluded and are encouraged to receive the vaccine.

  • What happens if I feel ill after receiving the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • While extreme serious reactions to the vaccine are rare, you should seek medical care if:
      • you experience a severe allergic reaction call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room
      • the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours
      • your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days
    • Ochsner On Call can answer questions at 800-231-5257 or 504-842-3155
    • If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.
    • Report side effects to FDA/CDC Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Reporting instructions are included in Fact Sheet you received when you got your vaccine.

  • Can I still become infected after receiving the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The vaccine cannot cause you to test positive via nasal swab or saliva test. This is not a live vaccine and will not cause you to shed virus.
    • Some patients may still become infected or develop symptoms following vaccination against COVID-19. However, the current vaccines under consideration all have greater than 90% efficacy of preventing you from getting infected. They also have demonstrated that your risk of a severe infection that requires you to be hospitalized is greatly reduced following immunization.

  • Does the vaccine prevent me from getting it or spreading it? plus_icon minus_icon

    • That is the intent. Instead of traditional vaccines, which may use the virus itself, the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine will use a protein on the outside of the virus. This means the vaccine can’t cause COVID-19 in a person, because it’s not using the virus that causes the disease.
    • This stimulates your body’s immune system to mount a response as if it were a true infection, minimizing your risk of infection or disease burden should you encounter the same virus later. The current vaccine candidates have been demonstrated to be over 90% effective in preventing you from developing symptomatic infection from COVID-19.
    • However, in order to stop this pandemic, we need to use every tool available which includes the immunization, social distancing, handwashing and wearing masks.

  • Are there any restrictions, such as quarantining in place, after receiving the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No, there are no restrictions after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, but you should continue to wear your mask, social distance and practice good hand hygiene.

  • What is the deferral period for potential blood donors who receive the COVID-19 vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No deferral is necessary for whole blood or platelet donors who received non-replicating, inactivated or RNA-based vaccines or the mRNA Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.

  • Can individuals who have received the COVID-19 vaccine donate COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP)? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No. The FDA does not feel that it would be acceptable for these individuals to donate CCP. This is because it is not known yet if the CCP would be efficacious from a vaccinated person.

  • Will I still have to mask and social distance after I get the shot? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes. Remember, it takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require 2 shots may not protect you until at least a week after your second shot.
    • It’s important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions.
    • Until we reach herd immunity and the majority of the United States has been vaccinated, we will need to continue to practice social distancing, handwashing and wearing masks. These are the best ways to reduce your chance of being exposed to or spreading the virus until we end this pandemic.

  • If I’ve already had COVID-19 and recovered, should I still get vaccinated? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Yes. There is not enough information currently available to say how long after infection someone is protected from getting COVID-19 again. In order to stop this pandemic, we need to use every tool available which includes the immunization, social distancing, handwashing and wearing masks.

  • Can I get routine vaccinations (flu, tetanus, shingles, pneumonia, etc) with my COVID-19 vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • It is generally recommended to avoid scheduling “routine” immunizations 14 days before or after your scheduled COVID-19 vaccination. If other vaccines are administered, there is no need to alter the COVID-19 immunization schedule or repeat any of the immunizations.

Vaccine Emergency Use Authorization and Distribution Questions

  • How are vaccines approved? What is the process? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Vaccines are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after rigorous and extensive development in laboratories, as well as pre-clinical animal studies and testing on human volunteers, to ensure they are safe and effective.
    • Monitoring of the vaccine and how it’s produced, including regular facility inspections, must continue for as long as the manufacturer holds a license for the vaccine.
    • Additionally, the drug sponsor follows a multi-layered approval process, which includes an investigational new drug application, clinical trials and presentation of data to a special FDA advisory committee.

  • What is an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)? plus_icon minus_icon

    • During a public health emergency, an EUA authorizes the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to make a product available to diagnose, treat or prevent serious or life-threatening diseases.
    • The FDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have assured the public that no safety or efficacy evaluation steps would be skipped in approving the vaccine.

  • How long does emergency use last? plus_icon minus_icon

    • An emergency authorization functions like a temporary approval for the duration of the emergency or until the FDA grants approval. To win full FDA approval for a New Drug Application, the pharmaceutical sponsor will have to submit additional research to fully define the drug's safety and benefit for patients.

  • Should I take a COVID test before or do I need to be COVID-free before receiving the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • You do not need to take a COVID-19 test prior to receiving the vaccine. If you are COVID-19 positive, then it is recommended that you follow the CDC guidelines and isolate for 10 days to limit exposure to others. Once you are out of isolation, you are able to receive the vaccine.

  • How much will the vaccine cost? plus_icon minus_icon

    • There will be no direct cost to employees or patients at this time.

  • Now that a vaccine is in emergency use, does that mean that vaccine trials have stopped? plus_icon minus_icon

    • No, the current vaccine trials will continue for the intended duration which for most trials is 24 months.
    • Additionally, we will see more trials for new vaccines and new targeted populations and these new potential trials will need research participants.
    • With more than 7 billion people in the world, more trials are needed to help vaccinate the entire world.

Vulnerable Population Questions

  • Are there any health restrictions that would prevent me from receiving the vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • COVID-19 vaccination may not be for everyone. If you are unsure if you should receive the COVID-19 vaccine, please call your healthcare provider to discuss the possible benefits and risks.

  • Can I get the vaccine while pregnant or breastfeeding? plus_icon minus_icon

    • Following guidelines from the FDA, no one is excluded from receiving the vaccine, even patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The only medical contraindications to receiving this vaccine are severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccine or severe allergic reaction to components of this vaccine. Additionally, you may also review this advice from the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine for those pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Will the vaccine affect fertility? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The claim circulating on social media that the COVID-19 vaccine causes female infertility is FALSE and is not supported by any research. Following guidelines from the FDA, no one is excluded from receiving the vaccine, even patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there are no medical contraindications to receiving this vaccine. Ochsner is encouraging all employees and patients to receive the vaccine as soon as it’s available to them. You may review this advice from the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine for those pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Should children get vaccine? What ages is the vaccine for? plus_icon minus_icon

      • Based on trial data, people ages 16 and 17 are eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine under Louisiana’s eligibility criteria.
      • Adolescent patients under 18 will be required to have a parent or guardian present when being immunized.
      • Additionally, there are a few trials that are enrolling various age groups including children ages 12 or greater with new trials for lower age groups that start as young as six months old.
      • Just like the adult COVID-19 vaccine trials, data from children and adolescent COVID-19 vaccine trials will need to support the safety and efficacy of the vaccines before FDA EUA approval for the population.
      • Ochsner will only recommend and administer vaccines that have been evaluated for safety, effectiveness and individual patient needs.
      • The benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks of forgoing immunization.

Different Types of Vaccines Questions

  • Is it uncommon to have multiple drug manufacturers produce and distribute a vaccine? plus_icon minus_icon

    • It is not uncommon to have multiple pharmaceutical manufacturers produce and distribute a vaccine against the same preventable disease. In fact, numerous vaccines, such as those for influenza and DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) are well-known and common vaccines who use several different manufacturers for vaccine development and distribution.

  • Why are some of the COVID-19 vaccines two shots versus one shot? plus_icon minus_icon

    • The series and dosing for each vaccine is based on the initial results from the clinical trial data. Just because some vaccines may have one shot vs two, doesn’t mean that one is less effective than the other.

  • What happens if I don’t get the booster/2nd shot within the allotted timeframe? Will I still be considered vaccinated? plus_icon minus_icon

    • To best maximize the efficacy of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and to ensure an optimal effectiveness, it is highly recommended that you receive the second dose within the specified timeframe as directed by the manufacturer. If you don’t receive the second shot, you will greatly decrease the chance of the vaccine working.

COVID-19 PSA en español con El Dr. Leonardo Seoane

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El Dr. Leonardo Seoane, pulmonólogo, intensivista y director académico de Ochsner Health, anima a la comunidad hispana a recibir la vacuna contra el COVID-19 cuando esté disponible.

“Como médico, confió plenamente en la seguridad y eficacia de la vacuna y entiendo lo importante que es para todos poder tener la oportunidad de recibir la vacuna. Por eso mismo me ofrecí como voluntario para ser uno de los primeros en ser vacunado” dijo, el Dr. Seoane.

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Facebook Live Q&A: COVID-19 Update

Watch the Q&A session on COVID-19 vaccines with Dr. Robert Hart on the Ochsner Health Facebook page. 

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Coronavirus Vaccine Information

Do Fully Vaccinated People Need to Quarantine After COVID-19 Exposure?
What If I Get COVID-19 Between Vaccine Doses?
How Are Vaccines Approved?
How Does the COVID Vaccine Work?
COVID-19 Vaccine and Fertility
COVID-19 Vaccine and Dermal Fillers
Masks and COVID-19 Vaccine
Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Safe for Transplant Patients?
COVID-19 Vaccine: Who Gets it First?
What Are the Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Why do Some Vaccines Require Two Doses?
When Can Children Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Can Pregnant Women Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
What’s in the COVID-19 Vaccine?
How Does a Pandemic End?
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