Important update: Healthcare facilities
CDC has updated select ways to operate healthcare systems effectively in response to COVID-19 vaccination. Learn more
UPDATE
Given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant, CDC has updated the guidance for fully vaccinated people. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time in-person learning in the fall with layered prevention strategies in place.
UPDATE
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines. More information is available here.
UPDATE
Travel requirements to enter the United States are changing, starting November 8, 2021. More information is available here.

COVID-19 Vaccines are Important

COVID-19 Vaccines are Important
Updated Oct. 25, 2021
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CDC is reviewing this page to align with updated guidance.

COVID-19 Can Be a Serious Illness

Some people with COVID-19 feel fine.  
Some people with COVID-19 feel bad.
Some people with COVID-19 get very sick.

COVID-19 Vaccines Are Important

COVID-19 vaccines help keep you from getting COVID-19.
COVID-19 vaccines help keep you from getting very sick from COVID-19.

When You Can Get a COVID-19 Vaccination

You can get a COVID-19 vaccine if you had COVID-19.
You can get a COVID-19 vaccine if you are pregnant.
You can get a COVID-19 vaccine if you have allergies.
You can get a COVID-19 vaccine if you have health problems.
Ask your doctor if you should get a COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccines Are Free for You

People can get a COVID-19 vaccine in many places.
Ask your doctor where to get a COVID-19 vaccine.
Ask the health department where to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Original Guidance: Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination

Download and Print: COVID-19 Vaccines are Important [64 KB, 2 pages]

Development of these materials was supported by a grant from the CDC Foundation, using funding provided by its donors. The materials were created by the Center for Literacy & Disability Studies, Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation at Georgia Tech. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided subject matter expertise and approved the content. The use of the names of private entities, products, or enterprises is for identification purposes only and does not imply CDC endorsement.

Project funding ended 9/30/2021. All edits after that date are completed solely by CDC.