Educators and COVID-19 Vaccines

Oregon has been administering COVID-19 vaccines in a phased approach, and now teachers and school staff are able to receive them.  We love and appreciate our teachers and want you to feel comfortable and safe about returning to the classroom. The vaccine offers another layer of protection from the COVID-19 virus, along with mask-wearing, handwashing and social distancing. Below are some common COVID-19 vaccine questions intended to assist educators as they prepare for immunization.

Are COVID-19 vaccines safe? Do they work?

Like all other approved vaccines, safety of COVID-19 vaccines have been a top priority. Extensive testing and clinical trials have occured to ensure safety and efficacy. The vaccines are continually monitored for safety by a variety of regulatory bodies even after approval for use. 

Can I develop COVID-19 from getting vaccinated? 

No. There is no live virus added to COVID-19 vaccines, so it is impossible to get sick with COVID-19 after getting vaccinated. 

Will I test positive for COVID-19 after I receive the vaccine?

No. COVID-19 tests are used to identify current infection with the disease. Because the vaccine does not infect you with the virus, you will not test positive.

I have previously gotten sick with COVID-19. Do I still need to be vaccinated? 

Even if you developed and recovered from COVID-19 in the past, you can get sick again in the future. At this time, it is unclear how long protection from previous infection will last and if any immunity is offered for a new future COVID-19 infection. Getting vaccinated will help strengthen your immune system and protect you from developing COVID-19 again.

Doesn’t getting sick with COVID-19 and recovering achieve the same goal as vaccination?

There are always risks when you choose wild immunity over immunity and protection from vaccination. As we have seen, COVID-19 infections can cause serious health complications and even death. Why take the risk? Vaccination against COVID-19 helps protect you by encouraging an immune response without first having to get sick. 

If you have more questions, please check our COVID-19 Resources page (http://www.boostoregon.org/covid19). Among other materials, we offer COVID-19 vaccine community workshops with medical professionals who answer your questions without fear or judgment.