FAQs About the COVID-19 Vaccine
When can my employees get vaccinated?
Now! Most sites in Pima County are now offering vaccines to all individuals over 16 years of age.
Can I require my employees to be vaccinated?
Yes, you can require that your employees get vaccinated. Employees have a right to request an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Check out the CDC Workplace Vaccination Program
Where can my employees get the vaccine?
There are multiple locations across Pima County
Sites include:
- University of Arizona: Call (602) 542-1000 or (844) 542-8201 if you need help. Bilingual schedulers can assist you if do not have a computer.
- Tucson Medical Center (TMC):To register, click here or call (520) 222-0119
- Banner South at Kino Stadium or call (833)-509-0908
- Tucson Convention Center: To register, click here or call (520) 222-0119
- El Pueblo Center (County site): Walk-up to sign up and receive the vaccine. Located at 101 W. Irvington Road. Free Parking
- Veteran’s Administration: If you are a patient of the VA you may be eligible to receive your vaccine at the VA. Find out more here
- El Rio Health: If you are a patient of El Rio Health, you can register online or by phone (520) 670-3909
- CVS Pharmacy
- Costco
- Other Local Pharmacies: Click here to find one.
Do I need to have an email to register for the vaccine?
On-site registration is available at TMC, Banner Kino, Tucson Convention Center, or El Pueblo Center. Parking is free.
You can receive telephone assistance for registration at Tucson Medical Center and Tucson Convention Center at (520) 222-0119 or through BANNER by calling (833) 509-0908 and they will help you register and set up an email account.
You can receive bilingual assistance with scheduling at the UArizona site by calling (602) 542-1000 if you do not have a computer.
Once vaccinated do we have to wear facemasks?
There are many things you can do after being vaccinated, but the CDC still recommends that you wear face masks in public, socially distance, avoid medium and large gatherings and frequently wash your hands.
Do I need to present any document at vaccine appointment?
Bring identification with you showing your name, and make sure that when you register you use the same name that appears on your identification.
For your second appointment, make sure you bring the vaccination card that you received at the first appointment.
Do I have to pay for the vaccine or do I need insurance?
No, vaccinations are free. You may be asked for your insurance information. If you have insurance, your insurance may receive a bill but you will not. If you do not have insurance, you can still make a vaccination appointment and receive your vaccine. More information here
Will I get paid time off if I leave work early to get vaccinated?
This will depend on your employer – ask your employer if you can receive paid time off for your vaccine appointment.
Should I make a plan to help my employees get vaccinated?
Here is some helpful information about workplace plans from the CDC
Can non-residents of Arizona receive the vaccine?
Yes they can. You do not have to be a resident of Arizona to get vaccinated in Pima County.
What are the side effects of the vaccine?
The most common side effect is soreness at the site of injection. Other side effects include fatigue, headache, muscle aches, chills, joint pain, and possibly some fever. These usually last 24-48 hours and no more than a few days and are a good sign that your body is building immunity to the coronavirus!
See advice on how to minimize your side effects and increase effectiveness of the vaccine.
Side effects may vary with the type of COVID-19 vaccine. See the website for your vaccine for more information:
Can I get COVID-19 between doses?
Yes, you are not fully protected until 2 weeks after your final vaccine dose. If you receive the Johnson & Johnson you will only get one dose, and are considered protected two weeks after that dose. Check out more tips!
Should I get the second vaccine from the same brand as the first?
Yes, if you received a two-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) your second dose should be the same brand as your first. You can check what brand you received on your vaccination card.