Can I still catch COVID after being vaccinated? Can I still spread COVID after being vaccinated?

Yes. It is still possible to contract COVID-19, with these cases being known as "breakthrough cases." Although the vaccine is highly effective at preventing COVID-19, is not 100% effective. There is some evidence that vaccination may make illness less severe for those who are vaccinated and still get sick.

If you've been vaccinated, you should still watch out for symptoms of COVID-19, especially if you’ve been around someone who is sick. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should get tested and stay home and away from others.

You may choose to continue to wear masks and practicing physical distancing, even after you have been vaccinated. Learn more about After You've Been Fully Vaccinated.

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1. Can I get a booster shot of the COVID vaccine?
2. Why should children get the COVID-19 vaccine?
3. How soon after having COVID can I get vaccinated?
4. Why should I get vaccinated if I've already had COVID-19?
5. What do I do if I lose my vaccine card?
6. Can I stop wearing a mask and following public health protocols if I am vaccinated?
7. After getting vaccinated, do I still need to quarantine after possible exposures?
8. Can I still catch COVID after being vaccinated? Can I still spread COVID after being vaccinated?
9. After I’ve gotten vaccinated, how long will it take to get immunity?
10. Will I still be protected if I only get one dose? Why is important to get the second dose?
11. If I get symptoms shortly after I’ve been vaccinated, should I get tested?
12. What is community immunity or herd immunity? How many people need to get vaccinated to develop community immunity from COVID-19?
13. Are the vaccines effective against variants?