Disability Resources by Category
Getting Vaccinated
Getting Vaccinated
- People who have disabilities may have worse symptoms or need to go to the hospital if they get COVID-19. This is because some health problems make it harder to fight COVID-19. Here is information to help you decide if you want a COVID-19 vaccine.
- How does the COVID-19 vaccine work? Most COVID-19 vaccines come in two shots. They are given one at a time, at least three weeks apart. The first shot gets your body ready, and the second shot gives you more protection. Now, we have boosters that protects you even more as time goes on. You are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination if you have received all recommended doses in the first series and one booster when eligible. Vaccines will help protect you from COVID-19.
- What are the side effects? Each of the COVID-19 vaccines may cause minor side effects. Some common side effects are:
- Pain (or redness) where you got your shot.
- Sore muscles and joints.
- Feeling tired.
- Mild fever, chills, and nausea.
- Some things to consider:
- Do I have a condition that makes it more likely that I’ll become very sick from COVID-19?
- Do I live with, work with, or spend time with someone who is likely to become very sick from COVID-19?
- If it's been more than 12 months since your last vaccine, you may need to get the COVID-19 booster.
- Accessibility of COVID-19 Vaccine Websites: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Justice has entered into a number of settlement agreements with grocery, supermarket, and pharmacy businesses to remove barriers preventing people with certain disabilities from getting information about COVID-19 vaccinations and booking their vaccination appointments online. You can learn more by reading the U.S. Department of Justice Fact Sheet on Accessibility of COVID-19 Vaccine Websites and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Fear of Needles & the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Guide for People with Disabilities
- Being afraid of needles is normal. Many people have a fear of needles. Check out the Association of University Cents on Disabilities (AUCD)' Fear of Needles & the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Guide for People with Disabilities guide to better support you and get you ready for your vaccine.
- Florida Center for Inclusive Communities Covid-19 Resources for People with Disabilities
- The Florida Center for Inclusive Communities has a website page for COVID-19 resources for people with disabilities. Visit their page for videos, resources, and more.
- CDC’s Emergency Partners Information Connection (EPIC)
- EPIC offers webinars and newsletters with updates about public health emergencies and how to respond to them, and disseminates a wealth of helpful information for our community.
- Visit their website to view their various COVID-19 resources for people with disabilities and children.
This information is provided by Disability Rights Florida (DRF) for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
For more information, or to request assistance arranging accessible transportation to a vaccination appointment, scheduling a vaccine appointment or reminder, or reporting other difficulties related to vaccine access, please contact DRF toll-free at (800) 722-8142, or through TDD at (800) 346-4127.
Updated 5/23/2023