Coronavirus (COVID-19) Vaccine Resources

To answer questions you may have about COVID-19 vaccines and the latest developments both nationally and locally, we have put together a list of resources below from reputable organizations that can provide you with up-to-date information.  This post was last updated on Thursday, June 10, 2021.

For general COVID-19 resources, please refer to the BPL’s earlier Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources blog post. The BPL also has separate posts on help for small businesses during this time, unemployment resources, and mutual aid organizations.  

State and Local Websites and Resources 

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts put together a COVID-19 vaccine distribution and schedule that prioritizes our most at-risk residents. And the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is overseeing the distribution. The City of Boston continues to work with our federal, state and health care partners to ensure widespread access to vaccination when available.

Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) 

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health provides up-to-date information about the state’s planning and preparation for the COVID-19 vaccine. The above website includes:  

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC)

The Boston Public Health Commission website provides accurate and up-to-date information on the effectiveness, safety and availability of the COVID-19 vaccine for Boston residents. The website is updated as information becomes available and includes:

The City of Boston

The City of Boston website provides up-to-date information about the COVID-19 vaccine for Boston residents. The website is updated as information becomes available and includes:

  • Map of vaccine sites in Boston
  • List of Boston vaccine sites
  • Answers to common questions about the COVID-19 vaccine availability, effectiveness and safety 
  • Assistance for eligible seniors who need help booking an appointment
    • Eligible seniors who qualify for the vaccine and who need help with online registration should call 3-1-1 for help. Ask to be connected to the Age Strong Commission for vaccine registration assistance. Eligible Massachusetts residents can also call 2-1-1 if they need help for registration. 

Additional Local Resources 

Information on COVID-19 Vaccines 

Centers of Disease Control (CDC) 

The CDC is a federal public health institute of the United States. This website is updated on an ongoing basis and offers current information about the COVID-19 vaccine including:  

U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) 

The FDA is a federal agency of the Department of Health and Human Services that is responsible for ensuring vaccines are safe and effective. The above website offers: 

Johns Hopkins University & Medicine 

Johns Hopkins experts in global public health, infectious disease, and emergency preparedness have been directly involved in the international response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about: 

Vaccine Safety, Testing and Approval Processes 

Below are resources that provide explanations to how vaccines are tested to ensure safety and effectiveness.  

Mayo Clinic Q&A Podcast: "Don’t Hesitate, Dive Into Data for COVID-19 Vaccine” answers questions about:  

  • How randomized controlled trials worked  
  • COVID-19 vaccines for children and pregnant women  
  • Why the vaccine doesn't change your genetic makeup 

State and Local COVID-19 Resources

Please note, none of the above information is meant to replace advice from medical professionals. Please contact your health care provider for questions and concerns related to COVID-19.  

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