Vaccine cards are being used to help track COVID-19 vaccination. But what are these cards? What do they mean, and how will you get one? Jeffrey Silvers, M.D., medical director of infectious diseases for Sutter Health and part of Sutter’s vaccine task force, explains:
What’s the purpose of the COVID-19 vaccination card?
The main purpose is for an individual to keep track of which COVID-19 vaccine they received (currently Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna), the lot number, and when the person received it. Cards can also serve as a reminder about when to receive a second dose.
Who gets one?
Every person who gets the COVID-19 vaccine will receive a vaccination card at the time of their first dose. Fun fact: Vaccination cards display the seal of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) logo, as these cards are part of the vaccination toolkits distributed by the U.S. Government as part of “Operation Warp Speed.”
Do I fill out my own card?
You fill out your name and date of birth. The remaining information is filled out by the health care worker administering your vaccine.
All cards are the same and include a space for your name, date of birth and patient number (medical record or IIS record number, if applicable). Cards also provide a space for the name of the vaccine manufacturer (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson), lot number, date of the shot, name of the healthcare provider or clinic that provided the vaccine and when it’s time to come in for your second shot, if applicable. Note that Johnson & Johnson (J&J) requires only one shot.
What if I lose my card?
Try not to lose your card. Keep it in a safe and secure place that you’ll remember until the time of your second dose. Tip: consider snapping a photo of the card on your smartphone once your first dose is complete. Making a photocopy is another option.
Your card is not your only existing record of vaccination. Health care providers, like Sutter Health, keep electronic records where health information, including COVID-19 vaccination, is securely stored and can be referenced.
I want to post a picture of my vaccine card on social media. Is that a good idea?
While it’s tempting to want to post a selfie with your COVID-19 vaccine card, the Better Business Bureau warns against it for personal security and privacy concerns. Consider posting a shot of your vaccine sticker instead.
Do I need to hang onto my card after I receive my second vaccination?
Vaccination cards may become important proof of your vaccination. Cards should be kept in a safe and secure place where other personal medical records are kept.
Getting your COVID-19 vaccination is historic. It may be meaningful for you to hang onto your card as a reminder that you lived through this global pandemic.
For more information about COVID-19 Vaccination Cards and available COVID-19 vaccines, visit the CDC website.
