5 Reasons to Get Your Vaccination Now

More and more, things are starting to look closer to normal for many Americans—thanks in large part to the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines. As of this post, more than half of the total U.S. population has received at least one dose and among adults (18+) that number is in the mid-sixties. But to truly curb the pandemic, we need more people to get vaccinated. In fact, the Biden administration is campaigning a push for at least 70% of adults to have received one dose by July 4.

Good news is that it’s easier than ever to get your shot—there’s more in supply, expanded access and more proof it is safe and effective at preventing severe illness. Throw in a growing list of incentives from companies across the country (free rides, childcare, a million-dollar sweepstakes!) and you’re looking at some great motivation to roll up your sleeves.

In addition to protecting yourself from a potentially deadly lung infection, here are a few notable reasons to get vaccinated right now:

1. Convenient. Vaccines are now widely available in a variety of locations. Healthcare providers and clinics, retail pharmacies, grocery stores, dedicated vaccination sites and vaccination events are all on the list. Same day appointments and walk-ins are options at some places as well. You can search Vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you.
2. Eligibility. Everyone 12 and older is now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is authorized for ages 12 and up while Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are authorized for adults 18 and older. Learn more about who, where and when you can get the vaccine from your state health department, which you can find by selecting your state on our map. And just a reminder, the vaccine is FREE to all people living in the United States, regardless of their immigration or health insurance status.
3. Proven Effective. Over 140 million Americans have been vaccinated so far. From the way the vaccines work to potential side effects to what you can do after you are fully vaccinated, we are learning and understanding more every day. We know the vaccine is safe and can protect you from getting seriously sick in the rare instance you still come down with COVID-19. Visit our COVID-19 vaccine FAQs for answers to the most common questions.
4. Incentives and rewards. The CDC is compiling a list of incentives from companies nationwide that includes support to help you get your vaccine—such as free rides to vaccination sites and childcare during appointments. It also highlights companies offering added support for employees, including paid time off to get vaccinated. Then there are rewards! After you are vaccinated, access perks such as retailer discounts, premium content on apps, free Major League Baseball tickets and lots of sweepstakes you can enter, including one to win $1 million and free groceries for a year.
5. Returning to what you love. Summer is upon us and what better time to get vaccinated and return to activities you have missed during the pandemic. Hug your family and friends, take a trip, go to a ball game, hear some live music, get a haircut. Here are examples of safe activities if you are fully vaccinated.