PA Unites Against Covid

Reflecting on One Year of COVID-19

One year ago, we started seeing the first COVID-19 cases in Pennsylvania. It has been a challenging year – one that has tested all of us in many ways. We have lost too many family and friends to the virus. But the rollout of vaccine gives us hope and a path back to our lives.

We know there’s a lot of information out there, and it can be hard to keep track of all the changes. That’s why we’ve started this weekly update. You’ll get a round-up of news you can use and answers to your most pressing vaccine questions – delivered directly to your inbox. When you have good information, you can make good decisions.

Current Vaccine Phase in PA

Phase 1A – which includes healthcare, residents of long-term care facilities, people 65+ and those who are 16-64 with high-risk medical conditions.

Total vaccinations administered

3,535,956 (as of 3/13/2021)

You can find the latest vaccine data at the COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard.

Check-in on Your Loved Ones

Right now, vaccine supplies are limited. The state is working with the federal government to increase and improve distribution.

In the meantime, if you have relatives or neighbors in the 1A category who still have not been vaccinated, reach out to them. Ask about their vaccination plans and if they need help. Remind them that with time and patience, every Pennsylvanian that wants a vaccine will get one.

PA Teachers Get Johnson & Johnson Vaccine

The federal government applauded Pennsylvania’s plan to use its first allocation of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to protect teachers and educators. Starting this week, Pre-K to 12th grade public and non-public school staff could get vaccinated with the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Vaccines for teachers will be administered through local Intermediate Units with assistance from the National Guard. Teachers will be contacted about how to make an appointment.

Tech News: Your Turn Eligibility Tool & COVID Alert PA

If you’re looking for your vaccine phase (1A, 1B, 1C, or 2), check out our Your Turn Eligibility Tool. By answering a few questions, you’ll find out if you’re eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine now or in a future phase. You can also sign up for updates for when your turn arrives.

For those with smartphones, take a minute to download the COVID Alert PA app. You can opt in to get notified about potential exposure to COVID-19 cases. Other features include a daily symptom checker, and data dashboards for both COVID-19 cases and vaccines.

Both Your Turn Eligibility Tool and COVID Alert PA are available in English, Spanish, German, and Traditional Chinese.

Question of the Week

When can I get my vaccine?

A: Check out PA’s Your Turn Eligibility Tool to find out when you can get your vaccine. If you are eligible now, the tool will direct you to the Vaccine Provider Map. It will help you find a vaccine provider near you.

If it isn’t your turn yet, you can sign up to receive email and text updates when you become eligible. Text messaging and data rates may apply. The texts will come from the PA Department of Health’s hotline number (1-877-724-3258).