Aug
11

COVID-19 Team Update: Vaccination questions? Ask an Expert.

Banner showing COVID-19 virus

Do you have questions about COVID-19 vaccination?  Are you trying to learn more about the science behind the vaccine, the potential side effects, or other specific concerns?  Vaccines&US is making it easy for you to access trusted information.

You can email the Vaccines&US resource account with your vaccination questions. The Smithsonian-led Vaccines&US: Cultural Organizations for Community Health collaborative was developed with the help of an advisory team of physicians and researchers and with contributions from museums, libraries, and research organizations around the country. Any questions you ask will be assigned to experts from among these collaborating organizations and answered confidentially, typically within 48 to 72 hours. We hope you will take advantage of this free opportunity.

As you make your decisions about vaccination or begin to speak to your friends and family about the topic, we also encourage you to visit the Vaccines&US website. The site offers a wealth of resources and information about vaccination.

We understand you may also have questions about vaccination guidance for Smithsonian employees and contractors. The Smithsonian continues to review the President’s guidance that all agency personnel and contractors shall attest to their Covid vaccination status or be regularly tested. Currently, no action is required by employees and contractors. Employees are expected to continue to work as they are currently doing and to follow supervisory direction. The Smithsonian will provide additional details in the coming weeks.

Science-based safety measures, the vaccine, and your commitment to protecting our community have made the Smithsonian’s reopening not only possible, but also successful. Congratulations to the Anacostia Community Museum (ACM), which safely and successfully reopened its doors on Friday, August 6. ACM continued to serve the public while its physical space was closed with efforts such as an innovative outdoor exhibition and a virtual storytelling initiative. We look forward to seeing you in person soon!

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


Posted: 11 August 2021
About the Author:

Alex di Giovanni is primarily responsible for "other duties as assigned" in the Office of Communications and External Affairs. She has been with the Smithsonian since 2006 and plans to be interred in the Smithson crypt.