COVID-19 Updates: Latest on Vaccines, What to Do Once Vaccinated and More

Today, all of our members will be receiving the below email, which contains important information about vaccine updates, new CDC guidelines and Hally® health resources. We also sent a similar email, with the same information, to all of our employer groups.

As always, if you have any questions, please contact us at BrokerServices@healthalliance.org or by calling (877) 917-8489.

*****

“We have a growing sense of optimism as we see more people in our communities getting the COVID-19 vaccine every day. As always, there’s been a lot in the news lately about the disease, the vaccines and more, and we want to point you to the most accurate information. Read on for our latest updates.

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Information

Last month, the government recommended a temporary pause in getting the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccine. That pause has ended, and we want you to know that the J&J vaccine is safe and effective. A very small number of people – less than 10 people out of 7.5 million – had experienced a rare type of blood clot after getting the vaccine, and the government simply wanted to study why this had happened. The government has confirmed that the J&J vaccine is indeed safe.* The pause has ended and you’re now able to get the shot again.

We strongly recommend you get the J&J vaccine if it’s available to you, just as we recommend you get the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines if they’re available. At this time, you might not be able to pick which vaccine you get, so we recommend you get whatever brand of shot is offered. All are safe and effective. For the latest information about the vaccines, visit the CDC’s website.

Schedule your vaccine today.

Everyone age 16 and older is now eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Visit the CDC’s website for more information, including how to find and schedule your COVID-19 vaccine. If you’re not already vaccinated, we recommend you schedule your vaccine appointment today.

To schedule your vaccine – or to find out how:

• Visit the website of your local (city or county) public health department or give them a call. This is the best source of information because it’s specific to your local area.
• You can also visit this helpful CDC webpage: Find a COVID-19 Vaccine.

Supplies of the vaccine might still be limited in certain areas, so please be patient if you’re put on a waiting list. And when it’s your turn to get the vaccine, remember to bring your insurance ID card. If you have the Hally® app on your mobile device, the virtual ID card on the app works just as well.

Vaccines are safe for pregnant women.

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you are still able to get any of the currently authorized COVID-19 vaccines. According to the CDC, the vaccines are considered safe and unlikely to pose a specific risk for people who are pregnant. If you have questions about getting vaccinated, feel free to talk with your doctor. However, the CDC notes that this is not required before getting your shot. For more information, visit the CDC’s website.

New Guidelines: What to Do Once You’re Fully Vaccinated

The CDC has issued new recommendations for what you can, should and should not do once you’re fully vaccinated. Visit this webpage for the latest guidance. And please note that these guidelines are often added to and updated according to the latest scientific knowledge, as we learn more about the disease.

Hally Health Happenings

The pandemic has led all of us to remember the importance of our health and well-being. We wanted to remind you of the many health and wellness resources available at hally.com. Throughout May, be sure to check out:

• Our special podcast episode for Mental Health Awareness Month.
• Our short tutorial video for taking your blood pressure at home. (It’s National High Blood Pressure Education Month.)
• New fitness and healthy cooking videos.
• And much more to keep your mind, body and spirit healthy.

Remember that we’re always here for you and your family. Give us a call at the number on the back of your member ID card, and visit our webpage for more information about COVID-19. We’re honored to be your trusted health plan.

*A very small number of people might still be at risk for rare blood clots. Seek medical care right away if you experience any of these symptoms within three weeks of getting your vaccine: severe headache, backache, blurred vision, fainting, seizures, severe pain in your abdomen or stomach, severe pain in your chest, leg swelling, shortness of breath, tiny red spots on the skin (petechiae), or new or easy bruising or bleeding.”