COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions

For your business and your employees, you can create and implement a COVID-19 vaccine plan by following these three steps: 

1. Create a COVID-19 vaccine plan: In developing your plan, you will need to review state or local vaccine policies and maybe seek legal advice. Consider incentives, such as paid time off (PTO) for your team to get the shot(s) and recover from side effects (if they occur). 

2. Implement your plan: When you finish creating your plan, communicate it to your employees both verbally and in writing. Also, be sure to continue following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidance on wearing masks and social distancing even after all of your employees are vaccinated. You can also keep your employees apprised of updates on vaccine eligibility and where to register using VaccineFinder.org.

3. Talk with your employees: Your employees will likely have questions about the vaccine so offering a way to have open discussions and share information is one way to hear and alleviate people’s concerns. The CDC has a resource on what to expect before, during, and after your vaccine, which can be helpful for you and your employees throughout the process. During these discussions, it is also important to stress that COVID-19 vaccines are free and people do not need insurance, cash, or a credit card to get vaccinated -- you don’t have to worry about any co-payments, deductibles, or receiving a bill to get one. 

For more information, visit the Reimagine Main Street Vaccines Resources page to learn more about workplace vaccination strategies and plans here.

Beyond your business, there are ways to assist with vaccine promotion and distribution in your community that do not require much of your time. There are three main areas where you can provide this support in collaboration with your local health department and other government agencies.

1. Be an Ambassador: You can be an ambassador and help reduce vaccine hesitancy among your friends, family, and peers. For example, you can encourage your local chamber of commerce, Rotary Club, or church to host an educational conversation on the importance of the vaccines.

2. Community Communications: If you’re so inclined, using your business to spread awareness is another way you can assist. Ways to do this range from donating advertising space, communicating with your customers, and partnering with your local health department. 



3. Logistical Support: Your business can provide logistical support through efforts such as donating supplies, such as personal protection equipment or water or snacks to vaccination sites, offering vacant space to assist with distribution, and giving PTO to employees who volunteer at mass vaccination sites or for outreach efforts to get people signed up for the vaccine. 

If you would like more information, Reimagine Main Street has compiled a list of resources on communicating effectively about the COVID-19 vaccines here.