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The COVID-19 vaccine is available in New York to people 12 and older, and children ages 5 to 11.

The Institute for Family Health is currently offering the Moderna vaccine (18+) and the Pfizer pediatric vaccine (5-11) at some of our locations.

Patients can schedule 1st, 2nd, 3rd doses and boosters of the Moderna vaccine at some of our locations. Please note that third doses are for immunocompromised individuals and booster shots are for eligible individuals. We are also offering the Pfizer pediatric vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 at some of our locations.

We continue to encourage patients to make use of New York City and State vaccine sites that have many available appointments, including walk-in appointments. For New York City vaccine sites, visit https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/ or call 877-VAX-4NYC. Outside of NYC, visit https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov or call 833-NYS-4-VAX.

Ready to get vaccinated? Here’s what you should know:

• You do not need to be a patient at the Institute for Family Health to schedule your vaccine with us.
• In New York City, appointments are available at Family Health Center of Harlem, Walton Family Health Center (Bronx),  Stevenson Family Health Center (Bronx).

In the Mid-Hudson Valley, appointments are available at our Kingston, New Paltz, Ellenville and Hyde Park locations.

• Please note: we are currently offering the Moderna vaccine, which is for people age 18 and older. We are also offering the Pfizer pediatric vaccine, which is for children ages 5 to 11.
• It is extremely important that you keep your appointment, or cancel in advance. We cannot waste any doses. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call 844-434-2778.

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You can also get vaccinated at a New York State or New York City vaccine site. In NYC, visit https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/ or call 877-VAX-4NYC. Outside of NYC, visit https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov or call 833-NYS-4-VAX.

For COVID-19 vaccine information in Ulster and Dutchess county, visit https://covid19.ulstercountyny.gov/vaccine-resource-center/ and https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/DBCH/COVID-19-Vaccine-Information.htm.

Please note: You will not be able to see https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/ on Internet Explorer. Please use Firefox, Chrome, Safari, Edge or another internet browser instead.

Questions and Answers about the COVID-19 Vaccine

Is the vaccine safe? Has it been tested enough?

Because COVID-19 is so serious, scientists from all over the world have worked together to create safe vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines were tested in large research studies to make sure they are safe. People of different ages, races, and ethnicities, as well as those with different medical conditions, volunteered to participate in these studies, which have shown the vaccines are safe. The U.S. government, New York State, and many countries around the world have set up special committees to make sure the vaccines are safe.

How many shots do I need? Will they hurt?

We are currently offering the Moderna vaccine. You will need one shot, and then a second shot 28 days later. When you come in for your first shot, we will schedule your second appointment.

Shots often feel like a quick pinch. After, your arm might feel sore or warm, or look red. You might get a headache or a fever. Some people have worse side effects after their second shot. These side effects are a sign that your immune system is working.

Will the vaccine give me COVID-19 or make me feel sick?

The vaccine cannot give you COVID-19. You may feel some side effects from the vaccine, like a headache or fever. Your arm might feel sore or warm, or look red. These side effects should go away on their own within a week. If you have more serious side effects, please call us so we can help.

What will the vaccine cost?

Everyone will be able to get vaccinated regardless of insurance or ability to pay. If you have insurance, your insurance may pay. Otherwise, you will be able to get the vaccine for free from us or from New York State or New York City.

If I had COVID-19, do I still need to get vaccinated?

Yes. People who have had COVID-19 can get it again. Even if you had COVID-19 and you think you might be immune, getting the vaccine is the safest choice. However, you should not get vaccinated if you are currently sick with COVID-19. If you have received infusion or treatment for COVID-19 or if you have COVID-19 now, talk to your provider about when to get vaccinated.

If I recently received another vaccine, can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

You can get your COVID-19 vaccine on the same day as other vaccines. You do not need to delay your regular vaccines or COVID-19 vaccine.

Can children get the vaccine?

To start, young children will not be able to receive the vaccine. Children ages 12 and older can receive one version of the vaccine. We will find out soon about vaccinating younger children.

Can people who are pregnant get the vaccine?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your provider. Medical professionals are encouraging people who are pregnant and breastfeeding to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Do I still have to wear a face covering and avoid close contact with people after I’m vaccinated?

Even after you are vaccinated, you must still wear face coverings and practice other precautions like social distancing in healthcare settings, subways and buses, or wherever else required. Children and other individuals who cannot get vaccinated are most protected when the people around them are wearing face coverings, especially indoors.

Continue to follow New York State guidelines on preventing the spread of COVID-19.

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For the most up to date information, visit this page institute.org/covid19vaccine
or talk to your provider.