Q. Will I be required to get the vaccine?

A. At this time, the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is completely voluntary for service members under the Emergency Use Authorization passed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Service members identified to receive the vaccine may choose not to receive the vaccine, but also may request to receive the vaccine at a later date. Commanders are not authorized to order their service members to be administered the vaccine and there will be no punitive action taken against those who chose not to receive the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine could become a requirement once it receives full FDA licensure.

Q. Should I get the vaccine if I've already had COVID?

A. The Centers for Disease control suggests that you may get the vaccine even if you previously have been diagnosed with COVID-19. Current evidence suggests that reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19 is uncommon in the 90 days after initial infection.

Q. What if I get the vaccine from my civilian employer/civilian provider?

A. Guardsmen who received the COVID-19 vaccine through their civilian employer or provider should provide a record of the immunization to their medical readiness NCO for input into the service member's medical record.

Q. Do I need to still wear a mask and socially distance after receiving the vaccine?

A. Yes. It is important for everyone to continue to use all the tools available to us to help stop this pandemic, including covering your mouth and nose with a mask, washing hands often and staying at least six feet away from others.

Q. When will the vaccine be available to me? 

A. The Minnesota National Guard is currently vaccinating any member of the Minnesota National Guard who would like to receive a vaccine. Contact your unit to schedule an appointment at a centralized vaccine clinic or to find out when your unit is scheduled for a decentralized vaccine clinic.

Q. Is the vaccine safe?

A. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for use under an Emergency Use Authorization to prevent COVID-19 for use in individuals 18 years of age and older. COVID-19 vaccines were tested in large clinical trials to ensure they meet safety standards. The FDA carefully reviews all safety data from clinical trials and authorizes emergency vaccine use only when they expected benefits outweigh the potential risks.