### COVID-19 Vaccines and Boosters for People with Diabetes If you have diabetes, it's important to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know: #### Available Vaccines - **Pfizer-BioNTech** and **Moderna**: Both require two shots, with full vaccination achieved two weeks after the second shot. - **Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen**: Requires one shot, with full vaccination achieved two weeks after the shot. #### Eligibility for Boosters - People with diabetes are at higher risk for complications from COVID-19 and are prioritized for booster shots. - **Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna**: Booster available at least six months after the second dose. - **Johnson & Johnson**: Booster available at least two months after the single dose. - Mixing and matching of vaccines for boosters is allowed. #### Questions to Ask Your Provider - Timing of the booster shot. - How to manage mild side effects after vaccination. #### Cost - COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are free for everyone. Some providers may charge a fee, which can be reimbursed by insurance or a relief fund if uninsured. #### Importance of Vaccination - People with diabetes are at increased risk for severe illness and death from COVID-19. - Studies show that people with diabetes are more likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19 compared to those without diabetes. - Vaccination is especially important for Black, Latino, and Native American communities, who are disproportionately affected by both diabetes and COVID-19. #### Safety and Effectiveness - People with diabetes were included in vaccine trials and studies show the vaccines are safe and effective for them. - Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are highly effective at preventing symptomatic infection. - Johnson & Johnson vaccine is effective at preventing moderate to severe disease. #### Side Effects - Common side effects include pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, chills, tiredness, and headaches. - Rare risk of myocarditis, especially in young men, but COVID-19 infection carries a higher risk. - Keep a sick-day kit with extra medications and supplies in case of feeling unwell after vaccination. Stay informed and prioritize your health by getting vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.