United Jewish Council of the East Side

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Covid-19 Vaccine for Seniors in NYC: What You Need to Know

Monse Moreno

Two Covid-19 vaccines have been authorized by the FDA and approved by New York State’s independent Covid-19 Clinical Advisory Task Force. There are limited supplies, so people at higher risk of contracting the virus, such as individuals over 65, are eligible to receive the vaccine. There are two doses – Once you’re scheduled for the first dose, you will be notified when and where to go for your second dose, which will be administered approximately two weeks after the first dose.

What you need to know about the Covid-19 vaccine

Who is eligible to get the vaccine in NYC?

Due to limited quantities, vaccinations are being distributed to groups by priority of current risk, including people ages 65 and up. For a complete list of who is eligible, go to Phased Distribution of the Vaccine | Covid-19 Vaccine (ny.gov)

When can I get a Covid-19 vaccine if I live in NYC?

You MUST register to schedule an appointment for your vaccine.

  • Register by phone: 1-877-VAX-4NYC (1-877-829-4692). The hotline is open from 7 am to 10 pm seven days a week.

How much does the Covid-19 vaccine cost?

In most cases, the vaccinations are free to the public. However, please check with your insurance provider to confirm this.

What do I need to know before I go to my Covid-19 vaccine appointment?

  • If you don’t feel well on the day of your appointment, you should reschedule by calling the number given to you when you made your appointment.

  • You must wear a mask to be admitted to your appointment.

  • After getting your shot, you will be asked to wait 15 minutes to ensure you don’t have an allergic reaction before you can leave.

  • At the time of your first dose, you will receive a vaccination card and an appointment to get your second dose. You must get the second dose for the vaccine to be 95% effective.

Senior Citizens Are Now Eligible To Receive the Covid-19 Vaccine in NYC

Where can seniors get a Covid-19 vaccine in NYC?

Anyone aged 65 or older will likely be vaccinated at pharmacies or other locations designated by the city. You must register first to find out where to go for your vaccination.

Is there any reason I should not get the Covid-19 vaccine if I’m 65 years or older?

Before you schedule your shot, you should talk to your healthcare provider. There are several factors to be aware of that may preclude you from getting a vaccine.

  • If you’ve ever had a severe reaction to a vaccine or injectable therapy such as intramuscular, intravenous, or subcutaneous.

  • If you have received another type of vaccine within 14 days prior to having your Covid-19 shot.

  • If you are currently acutely ill from the Covid-19 infection.

  • If in the past 90 days, you have received monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma as part of Covid-19 treatment.

  • If you have ever had a severe reaction to a component in the Covid-19 vaccine. Visit the CDC website to learn more about the Moderna vaccine and the Pfizer-BioNTec vaccine.

What if I can’t make it to the place of my appointment?

There will be special transportation available across the five boroughs. Click HERE to find the number for your local transportation provider.

Additional Links and Resources on Covid-19 Vaccine for NYC Seniors