The COVID-19 vaccine is given as a shot, similar to your annual flu vaccine. The majority of vaccines currently undergoing trials require two shots to be effective, with these shots given a few weeks apart.

Based on what we know about vaccines for other diseases, health experts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may help keep you from getting seriously sick. Getting the vaccine is a safer and more controlled way to build protection since there is no way to predict how COVID-19 will affect you. Research has shown that the vaccine is safe and effective. 

At this time, we urge residents to seek the vaccine for their primary healthcare provider or find other local COVID-19 vaccine providers on this page. You can also join through Harris County Public Health' here.

As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes largely available to the public, we encourage you to reach out to your local hospitals, primary care physician, clinics, and even nearby pharmacies. Learn more in the AskHCPH video for Español, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Arabic.

The state of Texas will be responsible for distributing the COVID-19 vaccine to local communities. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) has more than 1,000 partners who will receive shipments and vaccinate people when the time comes.

As we wait for the COVID-19 vaccine to become available to the general public, we must remain vigilant in practicing safety measures like wearing face coverings, social distancing, and hand-washing. Learn more in the AskHCPH video for Español, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Arabic.

Experiencing side effects is a sign that your body is building immunity. It is normal to experience minor side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. Some of the common side effects include pain or swelling on the arm where you received the shot. You may also experience fever, chills, tiredness or a headache. Even if you experience these minor symptoms, it is important that you still get the second dose of the vaccine. Getting two doses is the only way to ensure that you have protection from COVID-19.

In most cases, experiencing a fever or pain at the injection site is normal. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider:

• If the redness or tenderness where you received the shot increases after 24 hours
• If your side effects remain after a few days

In rare cases, the Moderna vaccine causes a severe allergic reaction, usually within a few minutes to an hour after getting the vaccine. Contact your healthcare provider immediately or call 911.

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include:
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of your face and throat
• A fast heartbeat
• A bad rash all over your body
• Dizziness and weakness 

Unless you develop signs or symptoms that indicate you should not take the vaccine after the first dose, you should complete the series even if you develop the post-vaccination side effects to protect against COVID-19. Early studies show vaccine recipients have experienced some side effects after each dose, more so after the second dose. 

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine at the recommended time is very important. Vaccine manufacturers establish the timeframe based on extensive scientific research to ensure maximum protection against COVID-19. Learn more in the AskHCPH video below.

"EUA" stands for an Emergency Use Authorization. It is the process that allows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to quickly distribute medical products - including vaccines, medications, etc. - to those in need during public health emergencies. Under an EUA, the FDA may allow the use of unapproved medical products in an emergency to diagnose, treat, or prevent serious of life-threatening illnesses. Learn more in the AskHCPH video for Español, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Arabic.

Professionals and facilities may enroll as a COVID-19 vaccine provider at EnrollTexasIZ.dshs.texas.gov. For full details on requirements and the registration process, visit DSHS's Provider Vaccine Information resources. More information can also be found in HCPH's Guidance for Healthcare Professionals.