Members

COVID-19 Information for HPSM Members

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ

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Can I get vaccinated for COVID-19 now?

San Mateo County Health oversees the County’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program following guidelines from the  State of California.

Anyone six months or older is now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine

  • People six months or older can get the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine
    • Children need consent from a parent or guardian to get the vaccine
    • Either bring a parent or guardian to the vaccination site or bring a copy of the consent form that has been signed by a parent or guardian. Download the consent form here (available in multiple languages).

Anyone six months or older can get the COVID-19 vaccine regardless of immigration status 

Schedule an appointment or find walk-in locations

Will I have to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine? 

HPSM members pay no cost for the vaccine. 

Who do I call to get the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine? 

There are many places where HPSM members can get the vaccine – always at no cost. Learn about your options for where to get your vaccine and who to call.

Can I get transportation to my COVID-19 vaccine appointment?

HPSM Medi-Cal and CareAdvantage members can get a ride to their COVID-19 vaccine appointment at no cost.

Can the COVID-19 vaccine make me sick with COVID-19?

No. None of the approved COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. have the live virus that causes COVID-19. This means that a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19.

Will the COVID-19 vaccine have side effects? 

You may have side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. The side effects should go away within a few days. Common side effects are pain or swelling on the arm where you get the vaccine. You may also get a fever, chills, tiredness or headache. If you have any question or concerns, call your PCP or HPSM’s Nurse Advice Line. 

Can my child get vaccinated for COVID-19? 

The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for people who are six months old and over. Children six months to 17 years old can get the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Children need permission from a parent or guardian to get vaccinated. Either bring a parent or guardian to the vaccination site or bring a copy of the consent form that has been signed by a parent or guardian. Download the consent form here (available in multiple languages).

Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant or nursing?

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now or might become pregnant in the future. Learn more at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. 

Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I have an underlying health issue? 

People with underlying health issues can get the COVID-19 vaccine if they have not had a severe or immediate allergic response to any of the ingredients in the vaccine. It is especially vital that people with certain underlying health issues (such as heart disease or diabetes) get the COVID-19 vaccine. That is because they are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19. If you have questions about getting vaccinated, call your PCP or HPSM’s Nurse Advice Line.

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

Yes. The CDC advises you get vaccinated since it is possible to get COVID-19 more than once. Also, COVID-19 can cause severe illness. 

If you think you may have COVID-19

  • Call your primary care provider (PCP) or call HPSM's Nurse Advice Line at  1-833-846-8773. 
  • Ask your doctor for a phone or video appointment. Many providers can give you advice over the phone or see you by video. This service is fully covered by HPSM. Ask your doctor if they provide telephone or video visits.
  • Stay home and call ahead before visiting your doctor. It’s important to stay away from other people and avoid spreading the disease to others in your community. Call your doctor before you go so that you know how to protect yourself and others.
  • Wear a face mask when around other people (such as people in your home).
  • Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds.
  • Visit the CDC’s website for more information.