Earlier this month, all adults 16 and older became eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination and so far, almost 1 million Iowans have completed the vaccination process. The vaccine is safe, effective, free, and now widely available across Iowa.
Public health officials are encouraging Iowans to get the vaccine as soon as possible to stop transmission of the virus, save lives, and get life back to normal.
Vaccine navigators at 2-1-1 can assist in multiple languages to help set up vaccine appointments. Iowans can also visit vaccinate.Iowa.gov to find a vaccine provider. Many providers including Hy-Vee are now allowing drop-in vaccines and an appointment is no longer needed.
With all the information circulating throughout the internet about the COVID-19 vaccine, it is hard to know the facts from myths. Below are some common questions regarding the vaccine and its safety.
Should I get the vaccine?
- Yes. All COVID-19 vaccines currently available are effective at preventing COVID-19.
- Yes. Vaccinations have been a historically important tool to help stop the spread of diseases.
- Yes. COVID-19 vaccinations help protect people from getting sick or severely ill with COVID-19 and also help protect people around them.
Will a COVID-19 vaccine alter my DNA?
No. COVID-19 vaccines do not change or interact with your DNA in any way.
Can the vaccine make me sick with COVID-19?
No. None of the authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19. This means that a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19.
Is it safe for me to get a COVID-19 vaccine if I would like to have a baby one day?
Yes. If you are trying to become pregnant now or want to get pregnant in the future, you may get a COVID-19 vaccine when one is available to you.
This week, the CDC also updated their guidance on safe gatherings for those who are vaccinated. To learn more about finding credible vaccine information, please visit: cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/evalwebs.htm.
