An Update on COVID-19 Vaccinations

May 17, 2021 | 2021, Access

Last week, the Food and Drug Administration expanded the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to include adolescents age 12 through 15. This is yet another positive step in bringing our communities closer to the end of the pandemic.

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility and Appointments
COVID-19 vaccine eligibility now includes all Californians age 12 and older. Currently, only the Pfizer vaccine is approved for adolescents age 12 to 17 and parental or guardian consent is required.

As supply allows, vaccinations are offered at multiple locations across the Sutter Health Plus service area. Members can check appointment availability through:

  • Sutter’s patient portal, My Health Online, or by calling the Sutter Health COVID-19 Vaccine appointment line at 844-987-6115
  • California’s list of local COVID-19 resource websites to sign up for county alerts and find vaccination sites
  • Network pharmacies

Members can also sign up on My Turn, California’s COVID-19 vaccine scheduling portal, to be notified when vaccine appointments are available.

As a reminder, if a Sutter Health Plus member is able to get a COVID-19 vaccine, it’s covered even if it is administered out-of-network.

Safety Protocols
With the increasing COVID-19 vaccine eligibility and supply, the total number of COVID-19 vaccinations administered in California now tops 34 million, according to the state.

Last week, the CDC updated their recommendation to advise that fully vaccinated people can resume activities without restrictions of masking and physical distancing. However, California public health officials have not lifted all masking and physical distancing requirements. At this time, it’s important to remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines.