Are you fully vaccinated? Here’s what you need to know

When am I considered to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19?

You are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 two weeks after receiving your second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination, or if you have received one dose of the vaccine six months after recovering from a COVID-19 infection.

I am fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Does this vaccine protect me from getting the virus?

Vaccinated individuals have a greatly reduced risk of contracting the virus, contracting the more severe forms of the virus, hospitalization, and death. 

I am fully vaccinated. Do I still have to follow COVID-19 precautionary measures?

You can be in contact in closed spaces, such as homes and workplaces, with other people who have also completed their vaccination without the need to wear masks or commit to social distancing.

You need to adhere to the precautionary measures when coming into contact with people who have not completed their vaccinations, or if you are in a public place. Continue to follow JHAH’s “3Ws” to stop the spread of COVID-19 — wear a mask, wash or sanitize your hands, and watch your distance.

If I am fully vaccinated, can I still contract COVID-19 and experience symptoms?

The vaccine offers strong protection against COVID-19, yet it is still possible to get the virus. If this happens, you may experience cough, fever, shortness of breath, sore throat, and other symptoms. Vaccinated individuals have a greatly reduced need for hospitalization and a lesser likelihood of getting severe forms of the disease.

What should I do if I experience COVID-19 symptoms?

If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms you should:

• Get evaluated by a health care professional, and get tested.

• Stay home and isolate; once you have received your test result, if positive, continue to isolate until you have recovered.

Haven’t been vaccinated yet?

To protect yourself and others from COVID-19, you can make same-day and next-day appointments for your vaccinations.

• Visit JHAH.com> New Coronavirus> COVID-19 Vaccination for eligibility, hours of service, directions, and FAQs

• JHAH-registered individuals can use their MyChart accounts to book

• Alternatively, all eligible individuals can book by calling the JHAH Contact Center at 800-305-4444.

— By Layal Al-Khatib and Dr. Jaffar Al-Tawfiq