The COVID-19 vaccine is available for some in North Carolina
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine and following the 3Ws (wear, wait, wash) are our best protections against COVID-19. We want you to have all the information you need when it comes to this vaccine.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) is sharing important vaccine information and resources in one convenient place to help you stay informed.
You have a spot. Take your shot.
Here are the top five things you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine
- COVID-19 vaccines are approved by the FDA using Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)
- The vaccine will be available at no cost for all members
- The vaccine will be distributed in phases, determined by the federal and state government, and not everyone will receive it at the same time
- Members who live outside North Carolina will need to check with their state health departments for vaccine timelines
- After the public health emergency, we will cover the vaccine as preventative care, so you'll be covered whenever you decide to get vaccinated – now or in the future
Helpful Resources and Vaccine Information
While you're waiting to be vaccinated, it's important to continue following safety protocols - like the 3 Ws.
COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility1
In North Carolina, the vaccine is being released in phases, and each phase has specific requirements around who is eligible. Federal and state governments decide who gets the vaccine in each phase - not us. But we can make sure you're prepared for it.
We don't know how quickly the state will move through each phase. So it's important to know which phase you fall into so you can be ready when it's your turn.
The NCDHHS is the best resource for finding accurate and up-to-date phase information, as well as, what the requirements are for each phase.
Fast Facts about the COVID-19 Vaccine2
You've probably already seen dozens of articles or news stories about the COVID-19 vaccine. But it's important to get factual information from credible sources when you're making a decision that affects your health.
So here's what you need to know:
- The vaccine was based on years of research treating similar viruses. So scientists already had somewhere to start.
- Testing for the vaccine was thorough and successfully determined through clinical trials. And it's nearly 95% effective.
- The vaccine doesn't contain any of the COVID-19 virus. Instead, it creates antibodies we need to fight off the virus.
- There are no major side effects with the vaccine. Some people might feel tired or have swelling from the injection.
- Supplies will be limited at first, so only those who need it most will be eligible.
Blue Connect