We are introducing the Boulder Medical Center (BMC) COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ Page! This resource is a reference guide to answering the Frequently Asked Questions our clinical teams receive from BMC patients. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information to help our patients make informed decisions about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Should I receive the newly updated COVID-19 monovalent vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against COVID-19 illness this respiratory virus season. This is because the virus constantly changes, and protection from the COVID-19 vaccine declines over time.
Will my insurance cover the newly updated COVID-19 vaccine?
Most private insurance plans will cover the COVID-19 vaccine. If you do not have health insurance, you can receive the vaccine from local health centers, pharmacies participating in CDC’s Bridge Access Programs, and children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program at participating providers. See the links for these programs below:
-
- Bridge Access Program: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/bridge/index.html
- Vaccines for Children: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/index.html
Can I receive my COVID-19 vaccine at Boulder Medical Center?
Yes, you can receive the new COVID-19 vaccine at BMC if you are an existing patient. COVID-19 vaccines will be given in scheduled primary care and pediatrics appointments. If you do not have an appointment and want to receive the new COVID-19 vaccine, please get in touch with your provider’s office to schedule a vaccine appointment.
What is the difference between the original COVID-19 vaccine and the “new” vaccine?
Updated COVID-19 vaccines use the same formulation as the original vaccines. The “new” vaccines are updated because they protect against different variants currently dominant in the community.
How do I or my child become “up to date” on the COVID-19 vaccinations?
Current recommendations have changed. If you are five years and older, you are up-to-date when you receive one updated 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine. If your child is six months to four years old, they will be current after receiving all recommended doses, including at least one dose of the updated vaccines. After discussing with your provider, you may receive additional doses of updated COVID-19 vaccines if you are moderately or severely immunocompromised.
Can I or my child get Covid-19 from the Covid-19 vaccine?
No. COVID-19 vaccines do not use the live virus that causes COVID-19. For more information regarding how the vaccines work, please refer to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/how-they-work.html.
What are the ingredients in the COVID-19 vaccine?
To learn more about the ingredients of the COVID-19 vaccines, please refer to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/overview-COVID-19-vaccines.html.
What are the side effects of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?
Adults and children may have side effects. The most common side effects are redness or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, and nausea. Side effects typically resolve after a few days.
Where can I find more information about the COVID-19 vaccine?
For more information, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html.