COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions

Distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in Massachusetts and Cambridge began on December 14, with hospitals receiving an initial delivery of first doses to be administered to health care workers as first priority, followed by residents and staff of long term care facilities, first responders, and congregate care settings.

The Cambridge Public Health Department (CPHD) will play a significant role in vaccinating first responders during Phase I and the general public during Phase III in Spring 2021. The Commonwealth is overseeing the administration and distribution of the vaccine, so guidance to local health departments and local boards of health is subject to change.

The City of Cambridge and the Cambridge Public Health Department recognize that there are many questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.

While a COVID-19 vaccine is crucial to fully mitigate the spread of, and ultimately wipe out, this pandemic, we must remain vigilant and continue 1) mask wearing, 2) physical distancing, and 3) good hand hygiene. Getting the vaccine is a good thing, but it does not mean that we can let our guard down and stop these important COVID-19 mitigation practices.

Sadly, there has been a great deal of misinformation and harmful allegations regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. These unfounded claims may cause unnecessary worry and hesitation among some in our community.

More detailed information on the COVID-19 Vaccine can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/vaccine. 

The Cambridge Public Health Department has provided the following “Myths and Facts,” created by the Mayo Clinic, which can help us all do our part to debunk these untrue and dangerous claims: