This page has been automatically translated from English. MSDH has not reviewed this translation and is not responsible for any inaccuracies.
Vaccination is the best protection against COVID-19 infection and transmission.
Vaccination has been highly successful at protecting Mississippians from COVID-19 and restoring normal daily activities safely.
Vaccination provides excellent immunity against COVID-19, and sharply reduces the risk of transmission to others – even if you have already had COVID-19.
COVID-19 vaccines in Mississippi have proved to be very safe as well as effective.
Qualifying for COVID-19 Vaccination
Mississippians Ages 12 and Older Are Eligible for Vaccination
If you are 12 or older, you can be vaccinated at any of our free vaccination sites at no cost, or at a local vaccination provider such as a doctor’s office or pharmacy. (A parent or guardian must accompany minors to their vaccination.)
COVID-19 vaccinations are provided to Mississippi residents only, or to out-of-state residents who work in Mississippi.
If you have had severe reactions from previous vaccines or injectable medications, please consult with your doctor or a private medical provider about vaccination, rather than visiting an MSDH vaccination site.
Who Should Be Vaccinated
- Persons aged 12 and older can receive the Pfizer vaccine, and those 18 and over can receive the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines.
- Pregnant women, lactating women and those who are immunocompromised may take the vaccine; however, consultation with your healthcare provider is recommended.
- You can be vaccinated if you have tested positive for COVID-19 if you wait until your isolation period is over and your symptoms have significantly improved.
Who Should Not Be Vaccinated
- You should not take the vaccine if you have had severe reactions from previous vaccines or injectable medications.
Getting Vaccinated
Finding a Vaccination
Vaccinations are widely available around the state at pharmacies, hospitals and private physicians’ clinics. Eligible Mississippians can also be vaccinated at one of our free vaccination sites.
After Vaccination
- Side effects: Large-scale testing of COVID-19 vaccines has found a very low rate of serious reactions to vaccination. Like most vaccines, you should expect some soreness and fatigue for up to a day after vaccination, a sign that the body is developing a proper immune response.
- Second doses: Two vaccinations, several weeks apart are be required for full effectiveness with Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Read more »
- You do not need to wear a mask or practice social distancing for some activities if you are fully vaccinated. Learn more »
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Vaccination Records
MSDH does not provide replacement vaccination cards, but our MyIR online service lets you view your immunization records, including records of COVID-19 vaccinations, and print them if needed.
To get started, register with MyIR.
If you find errors in your vaccination record, contact the MSDH Immunization Office about corrections: 601-576-7751
Your Second Dose
- Pfizer and Moderna vaccines require two doses. Both doses of vaccine are necessary to be fully protected against COVID-19.
- If you receive the Pfizer vaccine, you should return 3 to 6 weeks later for your second dose. If you receive the Moderna vaccine, you should return 4 to 6 weeks later for your second dose.
- You must make a separate appointment for your second dose vaccination; it is not done automatically. Look for information on scheduling your second dose in the confirmation e-mail you get for your first vaccination appointment. If you have already had your first vaccination, look for a reminder e-mail with instructions on making
your second dose appointment. If you need assistance with making a second dose appointment, call the COVID-19 Hotline at 877-978-6453. - You will receive a text message reminder about your second vaccination as time for your second dose approaches. You can also set a reminder with the v-safe app for your smartphone.
- Please bring the vaccination card you received at your first dose to your second dose vaccination.
- If possible, schedule your second vaccination at the same location you received your first dose.
Booster Shots and Third Vaccination Doses
An additional dose of COVID-19 vaccine can provide added protection if you have a medical condition that affects your immune system, or if immunity from your initial vaccination has decreased over time.
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Our documents below offer guidance to medical providers on third vaccine doses and how to become a vaccine provider and order COVID-19 vaccine.
For medical providers
- MSDH guidance on additional vaccine doses for certain high-risk groups
- Apply to become a COVID-19 vaccine provider
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More Information
For Vaccination Providers
Last reviewed on Dec 29, 2020
