COVID-19 Vaccination FAQs

The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) has released FAQs about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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OCDEL is encouraging early childhood education professionals to receive the vaccine when eligible unless otherwise recommended by a doctor. Even when vaccinated, staff are encouraged to continue mitigation efforts such as wearing face coverings, washing hands, and social distancing.

Individuals can take the vaccine eligibility quiz to determine when they can get it.

For current information, utilize the DOH’s COVID-19 Vaccine page and refer to it frequently for updates to the vaccination efforts.

FAQs

Below are answers to frequently asked questions OCDEL has received. Also view DOH’s Vaccine FAQs.

When will I know if I am eligible to receive the vaccine?

ECE professionals are included in Phase 1B and not eligible statewide for vaccinations now unless they are 65 years of age or older or have an underlying medical condition that qualifies them for Phase 1A. View the “Getting the Vaccine” page on the DOH website.

Will OCDEL register staff/coordinate locations for staff to receive the vaccine?

No. The DOH’s webpage on vaccines features a statewide map showing vaccine provider locations. Use the map to identify a provider and coordinate with them directly.

NOTE: The ELRC Region 5’s quality partner Trying Together has been gathering contact information for child care providers as Allegheny County plans for vaccination distribution during phase 1B.

Will OCDEL make the vaccine mandatory for either staff or children?

No.

Can I make it mandatory for my staff to get the vaccine?

Deciding to require staff to be vaccinated should be discussed with your Human Resources and legal team.

Can I make it mandatory for the children in my care or their families get the vaccine?

Children were not included in the clinical trials for any of the current vaccines and therefore these vaccines are not available to anyone under the age of 16 at this time. Only the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine is approved for individuals ages 16 and 17.