The men and women of Bath Iron Works have a long history of helping others in the community, from volunteer work to gate collections in support of numerous community organizations and causes throughout the state. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have worked together to respond to this new challenge and support the community around us. We have used face coverings and practiced proper hygiene/handwashing/cleaning and social distancing to reduce the impact of the virus as much as possible here at BIW, and to avoid spreading the virus outside our gates. Our continued vigilance using those tools is crucial.
There is now another new tool available – COVID-19 vaccines.
The work we do every day at BIW is important. Delivering ships to our US Navy customer on schedule supports the defense of our country, our allies, and humanitarian efforts worldwide. For almost a year, COVID-19 has threatened and hindered our ability to deliver to our customer. Now with access to the vaccine, we will soon be able to get past this pandemic and remove a significant roadblock to our work, while protecting the community around us.
Vaccines Available at BIW
Free vaccines are available through Fit for Life. Please call 207-442-3145 for more information.
COVID-19 Vaccines FAQs
How can we trust that the vaccines are safe?
According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, all COVID-19 vaccines that are being used have gone through the same safety tests and meet the same standards as any other vaccines produced through the years. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave full approval to the Pfizer-BioNTech brand vaccine. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccine safety, please see the CDC’s website.
You can also learn more about vaccine safety and more through Gulfstream’s video series, which features Dr. Paul Bradley, principal investigator at Meridian Clinical Research, by clicking here.
Which vaccines are available?
We do not know which vaccine will be available when you make an appointment. Currently there are three approved vaccines. The Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines have been determined to be safe and effective against COVID-19, and are being distributed throughout the country. Other COVID-19 vaccines are still undergoing testing and have not yet been approved for use.
Will I have to get two shots of vaccine?
Not necessarily. Of the three vaccines currently approved for distribution, two are given in two shots, one at a time and spaced a few weeks apart, depending on the type. The first shot gets your body ready. The second shot is given at least three weeks later to make sure you have full protection. The third vaccine now available is given as a one shot dose. If you are told you need two shots, make sure that you get both of them. At the time of your first shot, you will be given an appointment at a later date to come back for your second shot.
Are there side effects from taking the vaccine?
According to the CDC, the vaccines may cause side effects in some people, like sore muscles, feeling tired or mild fever. These reactions mean the vaccine is working to help teach your body how to fight COVID-19 if you are exposed. For most people, these side effects will last no longer than a day or two. Having these types of side effects does NOT mean that you have COVID-19.
Resources
- Learn How to Schedule a Vaccine Appointment – Visit Page
- COVID-19 Vaccine Video Series: Vaccine Q&A with Dr. Bradley – Watch
- Fact Sheet: 5 Things to Know – View
- Fact Sheet: Answering Your Questions About the New COVID-19 Vaccines – View
- Website: COVID-19 Vaccines – Visit Site