COVID-19 Team Update: Get Vaccinated!

July 28 | Get vaccinated! It’s easier than ever.

The most important thing you can do to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 and help end this pandemic is to get vaccinated. Last week the Secretary implored those who have not yet been vaccinated to join the hundreds of millions of people around the world who have already done so. Now is the time!

Getting vaccinated has never been easier. Vaccination against COVID-19 is available for free to everyone over the age of 12. In many localities, walk-in appointments are available at pharmacies, grocery stores, and other places where vaccines are commonly given. To learn more about how and where to get vaccinated in your area, please consult your local health department.

The Smithsonian is giving you the time you need to get vaccinated – work won’t stand in your way. You are authorized for up to three hours of administrative leave to receive each dose of the vaccine. Should you have any side effects, you may take eight hours of administrative leave to rest and feel better after either or both doses. Simply go through your unit’s typical leave-request procedures when you make your appointment.

Once you are fully vaccinated, tell Occupation Health Services (OHS). Send a snapshot of your vaccination card to the secure OHS medical review email address. This optional step helps the Smithsonian understand the needs of the community and aids in contact tracing. OHS will not share your vaccination status with anyone – not your supervisor, not your teammates, and not anyone outside of the Smithsonian.

Should you have more questions about vaccination, check out the FAQs on the Smithsonian COVID-19 website. For even more information, go to Smithsonian’s collaborative Vaccines&US: Cultural Organizations for Community Health site. Once there you will have access to trusted information that can help you as you make your decisions about vaccination for yourself or to have discussions about the vaccine with your friends, family, and neighbors. 

Stay safe, be well, and get vaccinated!
The COVID-19 Response Team

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