COVID-19 Vaccine:

The Buffalo County Health Department is working with local and state partners to prepare for when a COVID-19 Vaccine is available for our community. Buffalo County Public Health will update this website as information becomes available.

Why do we need a vaccine?

Getting vaccinated is a great way to protect yourself and our community. A COVID-19 vaccine can protect you from getting sick and potentially prevent you from spreading the virus to others.

A vaccine will not replace the need to continue other actions that stop the spread of COVID-19. This is especially true while we are still in the process of administering the vaccine, which may take many months.

Who is currently eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Anyone who is 16 years of age or older.

Is the vaccine safe and effective?

The FDA, CDC, and independent advisors all review vaccine safety and effectiveness data before any vaccine is approved or allowed for distribution. COVID-19 vaccines go through all of the usual steps and phases that all vaccines go through to get full approval.

The COVID-19 vaccine was approved through Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). More information about safety can be found here. The FDA and CDC will continue to closely monitor the vaccine as it is rolled out. 

Is it safe to travel after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

• Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19

• Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to get tested before or after travel unless their destination requires it.

• Fully vaccinated travelers do not need to self-quarantine after returning home.

• Fully vaccinated travelers should still follow CDC's recommendations for traveling safely:

o Wear a mask (required on planes, buses, trains, and other public transportation)

o Stay 6 feet from others (avoid crowds)

o Wash your hands often!

Do I still need a vaccination if I already had COVID-19?

• Yes: Experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19.

• Even if you have already recovered from COVID-19, it is possible-although rare- that you could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 again.

• Everyone is encouraged to get a vaccine, especially considering the new COVID-19 variants.

• Variants are becoming the predominant strains of infection in Wisconsin.

What can I do after I’ve been fully vaccinated?

• Visit indoors without a mask with other fully vaccinated people.

• Visit indoors without a mask with one household of unvaccinated people who are not at risk for severe illness.

• If you’ve been around someone who has COVID-19, you do not need to stay away from others or get tested unless you have symptoms.

• Travel without quarantining.

Wisconsin DHS Vaccine FAQ

CDC Key Things to Know about COVID-19 Vaccine

Myths and Facts About COVID-19 Vaccine