There are many ways to vaccinate against COVID-19 at no cost. We want to help answer questions you may have. Please talk to your doctor if you think you may have COVID-19 and about the kinds of vaccines and treatments that are right for you.
Some questions you may have....
Those 6 months and older can get the vaccine. Those ages 12 and older can get the booster 2 months after the last COVID-19 vaccine dose.
Getting the vaccine will give you more protection from getting COVID-19 or from getting sick from COVID-19. If you had a test that was positive for COVID-19, you may consider waiting 3 months from when you started getting sick, or when you tested positive if you were not sick.
You can call KFHC at 1.800.391.2000, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and we will help schedule an appointment for you. We can also tell you where you can get the vaccine as a walk-in.
The Kern County Public Health Services Department has a tool on their website that shows you where you can go to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Click here and be ready to put in your address. A list will show you information for sites near you that are providing the vaccine. The list includes the phone number to that site. The vaccine supply and where you can get it may change so please call the provider’s office to be sure they still have it and to make your appointment.
You can also schedule an appointment with MyTurn online at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 1.833.422.4255 (M-F 8am - 8pm, Sa-Su 8am – 5pm).
- You will get a card that tells you the name of the vaccine or booster, the date you got it, and where you got it along with a printout about the vaccine.
- If needed, you will be told when to come back for the second dose. You will not be fully protected until 2 weeks after your second dose. You will be eligible to get the booster 2 months after the last dose.
- You may have side effects such as pain and swelling on your skin where you got the vaccine. You may also feel tired, get chills, have a fever or headache. These side effects should go away after a day.
Click here to find out more about how safe the COVID-19 vaccine and booster are.
NO. There is no cost for the COVID-19 vaccine. Please do not pay if someone tries to charge you. Only get the vaccine from a trusted health care provider. If someone asks you to pay, call Kern Family Health Care (KFHC) right away at 1.800.391.2000 and let us know.
DO NOT GET SCAMMED! Always get your health care from a provider you trust. If you have any questions or concerns about where you are going to get the vaccine, or to report an issue, call KFHC during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and a Member Services Representative will help you.
We have you covered! Your transportation benefit covers round trip, non-medical transportation such as bus passes, GET On-Demand, rideshare, and mileage reimbursement to and from your COVID-19 Vaccine appointment. Just call 1.800.391.2000 and select option 3 to request transportation. For more information about the transportation benefit, please click here.
Please call the Kern County Public Health Services Department at 661.321.3000. There is a homebound program available by request. You can schedule an appointment with My Turn at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 1.833.422.4255, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Please talk to your doctor if you have questions about the vaccine. You can also call KFHC at 1.800.391.2000, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., and ask to talk to a doctor at no cost over the phone.
“I was lucky to receive my COVID-19 vaccine and I encourage all Kern Family Health Care members to do the same to help protect you from getting COVID-19. The vaccines were carefully studied and found to be safe and effective according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).”
Dr. Martha Tasinga, a Board-Certified Family Practice Physician with Master's Degrees in both Public Health and Business Administration, is the Chief Medical Officer at KFHC. She has served multiple health care organizations throughout Southern California and she’s committed to ensuring KFHC members receive medical services of the highest quality.
There are some common myths and rumors that are going around, and we want you to know the facts. We have a short list of common concerns and myths below. If you hear a rumor that causes you to be concerned about the COVID-19 vaccine, booster, or any health care treatment, you should find out the truth from a trusted source.
Myth: I already had COVID-19 so I don’t need the vaccine or booster.
Fact: Getting vaccinated and boosted after you had COVID-19 will add protection against COVID-19. You should wait at least two months from the time you felt sick or the time you tested positive to get the vaccine.
Myth: I will test positive for COVID-19 after I get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Fact: The test used to see if you have a current infection is called a viral test. None of the approved vaccines can cause you to test positive or viral tests.
Myth: My safety was sacrificed for a speedy developed vaccine.
Fact: Research about other coronaviruses gave science a head start on the vaccine. Clinical trials, logistical planning and other steps to keep you safe happened at the same time, instead of one after another.
Myths & Facts: Resource sheet (English,Spanish)
For more facts about the COVID-19 vaccine click here to go to the CDC website.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccines and boosters or other vaccines. Research is ongoing on these and other COVID-19 topics. CDC guidance
Is it safe to get a COVID-19 vaccine and booster during pregnancy?
Check with your doctor and ask if the vaccine and booster will work for you. Many pregnant women have already received the COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. Data from the CDC’s Vaccination Health Checker and current trials do not show safety concerns.
Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster if I am breastfeeding?
Yes. There are no known risks for getting a COVID-19 vaccine or booster when breastfeeding. Your vaccine and booster may protect your baby from COVID-19. Share any concerns you have with your doctor.
Can I get a COVID-19 Vaccine and booster if I am trying to get pregnant?
Most women can get the COVID-19 vaccine and when trying to get pregnant. Confirm with your doctor if this is an option for you.
What if I had the first dose of the vaccine and I find out I’m pregnant?
Some COVID-19 vaccines require two doses. If you find out you’re pregnant after the first dose, you could still get the second dose. Your doctor can help you decide what is best for you.
Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine or booster with other vaccines?
Yes. Most people don’t have to wait to get other vaccines after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine or booster. Check with your doctor if you have any concerns.