Starting Friday, January 8th, Hoosiers at least 80 years old can get a free COVID-19 vaccine.
All it takes is a simple registration at www.ourshot.in.gov to find the closest vaccination site to you and to make an appointment. If you need help using a computer, a friend or loved one can register for you. Or, you can call your local AAA at 800.986.3505 or dial 2-1-1 for assistance.
Here are some facts you should know:
- The vaccine has received Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA after completing three phases of testing involving 43,000 participants
- The Centers for Disease and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has reviewed the vaccine and recommends its use
- The Indiana Department of Health’s external advisory committee of experts has reviewed the clinical trial data and also approves its administration
- The vaccine is available at no cost to you
- It is a two-part vaccine, so you must get a second dose after the first dose after 21 days or 28 days, depending on the manufacturer
Based on clinical trials on thousands of people:
- The vaccine is at least 94% effective at preventing COVID-19 for all adults (including 65 and older), genders, and race and ethnicity demographics
- Few side effects were reported, but included headache (2%) and fatigue (4%)
- Study participants reached full effectiveness seven days after the second dose
Please continue to wear a mask, stay physically distant and wash your hands even after being fully vaccinated
