(1) What's up with booster shots & our kids?
At what age can kids get the COVID-19 vaccine?
CDC recommends that everyone ages 5 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine. At this time, only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized for children ages 5 and older!
What is a major holiday event coming up for the Hmong community?
Hmong New Year celebration
Name the 3 COVID-19 vaccines available in the U.S.
Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson/Janssen
Name 3 individuals (by their relation to you) within your social circle who have gotten a COVID-19 vaccine.
[First to answer wins.]
What is a booster shot?
A booster shot is an additional COVID-19 vaccine shot given after the protection from the first shot(s) began to decrease over time. It is to boost the immune response and help people maintain protection against the virus.
How long should I wash my hands for?
The CDC recommends you wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
Are all COVID-19 vaccines authorized for people under the age of 18?
No, only the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is authorized for people under the age of 18.
Do I have to have medical insurance to get a COVID-19 vaccine?
No, you do not have to have medical insurance to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Although some sites/clinics may ask for it, you are not required to provide it.
When can I get a booster shot?
If you received either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, the booster shot must be administered at least 6 months after the completion of the primary mRNA vaccine series.
If you received the J&J vaccine, the booster shot must be administered at least 2 months after the initial dose of Johnson & Johnson.
What are 2 safer ways to celebrate the holidays during COVID-19?
Virtual gatherings, gathering indoors instead of outdoors to allow for ventilation and more space, getting vaccinated, and/or wearing masks.
How do I get in contact with HIP to get assistance in getting a COVID-19 vaccine appointment?
Sign up for our Hmong COVID-19 vaccine network at https://www.hipcalifornia.com/vaccine or simply send us a message.
Does a person's immigration status affect their access to COVID-19 vaccines?
No, COVID-19 vaccines are available at no cost regardless of legal status.
Can I get a booster shot that is different from my first shot(s)?
Yes. You may choose which COVID-19 vaccine you receive as a booster shot. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received, and others may prefer to get a different booster. The CDC now allows for this type of 'mix and match' dosing for booster shots.
What are 3 preventative measures I can do to stay safe and healthy?
Wear a mask, wash hands frequently, get vaccinated, stay home if feeling unwell, practice social distancing as much as possible, and clean and disinfect frequently touched areas.
What is the name of the vaccine clinic in South Sacramento that is organized by Councilmember Vang, volunteers, and the SAVE Coalition, which HIP is a part of?
Pannell Center Clinic - 2450 Meadowview Rd on Fridays, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10 from 3 - 6 PM. Walk-ins accepted! Make an appointment here: https://www.equivax.org/make-a-vaccination-appointment or with HIP.
If I am fully vaccinated, does that mean I can no longer contract COVID-19?
No, you can still get COVID-19 even if you are fully vaccinated.
Do booster shots have the same formulation as the existing vaccines?
Yes. COVID-19 booster shots are the same formulation as the current COVID-19 vaccines. However, in the case of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine booster shot, it is half the dose of the vaccine people get for their initial series.
Am I required to wear a mask outdoors in a large gathering even if I am fully vaccinated?
In general, no, you do not need to wear a mask in outdoor settings if you are fully vaccinated. In areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases, consider wearing a mask in crowded outdoor settings and for activities with close contact with others who are not fully vaccinated. You might choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of transmission if you have a weakened immune system or if, because of your age or an underlying medical condition, you are at increased risk for severe disease, or if a member of your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated.
What is one vaccine clinic I can go to in Fresno if I need language support in Hmong?
FIRM - 2630 E Weldon Ave. on Wednesdays, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM; walk-ins or appointments by 559-487-1500
Can I get a replacement COVID-19 vaccination card if I lose/misplace?
Yes, or you can obtain a digital record of it through these 4 options: Option 1 - contact the site/clinic where you got vaccinated, and ask for a replacement. Option 2 - You can ask your health care provider to check the California Immunization Registry (CAIR) to find a record of your vaccine. Option 3 - You can get your record from the state directly via a QR code at this link: https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/