2/17 Vaccine Talking Points

Why can’t I find my second dose? I got my first dose at a pharmacy and they’ve canceled my appointment/ told me they have no doses left?

Due to limited supply of the vaccine, a pharmacy may have to cancel your appointment if they do not have the vaccine in stock as they hoped when they originally scheduled it. Most pharmacies are calling customers back when they have their next vaccine delivery. It is important to understand that you do not have to get your second dose at the same place you got the first – you only need to make sure you are getting the same type of vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna).

You will be able to go to a pharmacy, certain primary care providers, some urgent cares or other vaccination events offering vaccines (such as Vault or Curative) to receive your second dose as supply allows. While some venues are pre-scheduling second dose appointments for customers, due to the unpredictability of future vaccine supply, you should be aware that any events or appointments may be cancelled on short notice. This information may change as additional supply, or more details, become available.

For more information on second doses, visit: de.gov/seconddose

Where can I get a second dose if I received my first dose at a State-run site?

The State announced yesterday a partnership with FEMA to open a COVID-19 vaccination center in Dover starting this weekend for those who received their first dose at: 

• Dover Division of Motor Vehicles on January 16th through January 18th
• Salesianum School in Wilmington on January 18th
• Delaware City Division of Motor Vehicles on January 22nd through 24th
• Georgetown Division of Motor Vehicles on January 23rd and January 24th

To register for your second dose appointment at Dover Speedway, visit: de.gov/fema after 11 a.m. this morning.

For more information on second doses, visit: de.gov/seconddose

What is the state doing to increase equity in distribution of vaccinations?

DPH, with recommendations from the Delaware Public Health and Medical Ethics Advisory Group (Ethics Group) has reviewed the CDC list of prioritized population groups and determines allocation and distribution of vaccine(s). The Ethics Group recommendations was made based on which groups are most at risk due to how the virus is transmitted (close contact, indoor facilities), the severity rate of the virus in the community, and based on the prioritized population groups.  

Persons of color work in many of the industries identified for Phase 1b and 1c vaccination. DPH, DEMA, and our community partners are working closely together to ensure we are ‘meeting people where they are’ – at trusted community centers, in apartment buildings, religious institutions, and more. We are also providing various education materials and digital events to ensure individuals have the information they need to make an informed decision about the vaccine before they make an appointment. Materials are available in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. 

Additionally, both Delaware’s COVID Vaccine Task Force and the Communications subcommittee, include representation from organizations representing communities of color and incorporate their feedback into weekly vaccine distribution planning.

Why can’t we turn down testing efforts and ramp up vaccination efforts? 

We have the capacity for more vaccinations, but we do not have the supply from the Federal Government. 

It’s important that we continue the mitigation methods we know that work as we get people vaccinated including wearing a mask, washing your hands, continuing to social distance, and getting tested. 

To find the nearest testing site to you, visit: de.gov/gettested

Do you have to register for events? Will registration or getting a vaccine potentially affect your immigration status?

Most vaccination events require registration either through an online form or by calling to register. However, the Division of Public Health is also ramping up community efforts to register vulnerable individuals in senior living locations, rural areas, and more. With the help of local vaccination clinics, we will expand opportunities for local events that will have different methods for registration. 

Photo ID is not required in all circumstances to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. You will need to prove that you are eligible for the current phase. You will receive a card marking the type of vaccine you received and the date it was received that will have your name and location of the vaccination event on it for your personal use, and as a reminder for your second dose. Getting a vaccination will not affect your immigration status. 

For those with questions or concerns about the process of getting a COVID-19 vaccine, please e-mail vaccine@delaware.gov or contact the Division of Public Health Vaccine Call Center at 1-833-643-1715 between the hours of 8:30am-4:30pm Monday – Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday.

Is it true we have to wear two masks now? 

It’s important to wear a mask to protect you and those around you. The only way a mask will work effectively is if it fits properly, but wearing two masks isn’t required, and it’s not the only way to get a good fit.

The CDC announced guidelines for proper mask fit. The long-and-short of it? If you have any air gaps in your mask, you could spread COVID-19. Therefore, it’s important to secure any leaks or gaps. One way to do it is by wearing a cloth mask over a medical mask. There are also other options to improve mask fit including nose wires, mask fitters and braces, and knotting and tucking ear loops. It’s not the layering of masks that makes it safer, it’s the fit. 

DO NOT layer two disposable masks OR a N95 mask and another mask.