If you weren't eligible for a Covid-19 vaccine before, you might be now. Starting today, roughly two million more Wisconsin residents 16 and up with many medical conditions (including common ones like asthma) are eligible for the vaccine.
Additionally, starting today all residents 16 and older in Milwaukee's 10 most vulnerable zip codes are eligible for a vaccine. Those zip codes include 53204, 53205, 53206, 53209, 53215, 53216, 53218, 53223, 53224 and 53233. Residents in those zip codes can schedule a vaccine here or visit two walk-in vaccination clinics at North Division High School (1011 W. Center St.) and South Division High School (1515 W. Lapham Blvd.).
These clinics will be open open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. No appointments are required. Vaccinations will be free, and no insurance will be required.
We've answered some of the most common questions Wisconsin residents have about the vaccine below.
STRARTING TODAY!! Everyone 18 and older who lives in these highest vulnerable 10 MKE zip codes are eligible for #COVID19 vaccination. Go to https://t.co/PDG9xGJyEF or https://t.co/dFFU9tLqX7 to schedule an appointment or come to one of the walk-in community sites listed below. pic.twitter.com/Cm4ks7mIoh
— David C. Crowley (@DavidCrowleyWI) March 22, 2021
How do I know if I'm eligible?
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has a website that outlines eligibility. An incomplete list of those eligible includes adults 65 and older, front-line health care workers, long-term care residents, police and fire workers and many educators and child-care staff are eligible, as well as many people with medical conditions.
Where can I get a vaccine?
The list of locations offering vaccines is extensive and growing. The best place to start by visiting the state's vaccine registry, or by calling 844-684-1064. Milwaukee also has its own vaccine registry. These registries are not comprehensive lists of vaccine providers, however. You may be able to get vaccinated by providers who are not listed.
I'm not eligible. When will I be?
The eligibility list is constantly expanding, so you may be eligible sooner than you think. The Wisconsin DHS is aiming to make all residents 16 and older eligible by May 1.
Are the vaccines effective?
Yes, very. Pfizer's vaccine is reportedly 95% effective, and Moderna's is reportedly 94% effective. Johnson & Johnson's vaccine is considered to be 66% effective, but it is 85% effective against the most serious Covid-19 symptoms. All the varieties of the vaccine are almost 100% effective at preventing hospitalization and death due to Covid-19.
Do I get to choose which vaccine I get?
No. Since all the vaccines are effective, the DHS stresses that residents should take whichever is made available to them.
Can I get a vaccine if I'm not eligible yet?
Yes, sometimes. Many vaccine providers have wait lists. They may call you if extra doses are available.
I'm vaccinated. Now what?
Congratulations. The Wisconsin DHS has a website outlining common side effects from the vaccines, and which activities are considered safe once you've been vaccinated.
I have other questions.
You can find the answer to many common questions at healthymke.com.