Responding to COVID-19 in Pennsylvania
Responding to COVID-19 in Pennsylvania
Last updated: April 11, 2022
COVID-19 isn’t going away.
As life goes on, we can take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from illness.
Pennsylvanians age 5 and over are now eligible for the COVID vaccine, and Pennsylvanians age 12 and older are eligible to schedule a booster.
Here are resources to help individuals, families, and businesses follow safety guidance and get vaccinated.
If somebody has taken drugs and becomes unresponsive, call 911 immediately. These resources are intended for preventive measures only.
Popular Resources
Get Vaccinated
Pennsylvanians age 5 and over are now eligible for the COVID vaccine. Kids ages 5-11 and adolescents ages 12-15 can receive the Pfizer vaccine only.
Find a Vaccine or a Booster
Use the vaccine provider map to find a place to schedule your vaccine or booster dose.
Track Pennsylvania’s Progress
Use the COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard to track the progress of vaccine distribution in Pennsylvania.
Why Vaccines?
Vaccines are safe and are the best way to protect yourself and those around you from serious illnesses.
COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you by creating an antibody response without having to experience sickness.
Why Boosters?
Boosters increase protection against COVID-19. Studies show boosters further keep you from experiencing serious illness from COVID.
If you got doses of the Pfizer and Moderna, you can get a booster dose if it has been at least five months since the initial series of two doses.
Individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine are eligible to get a booster if it has been at least two months since your initial dose.
What If I’ve Already Had COVID?
Because experts don’t know how long immunity lasts after someone get sick with COVID-19, vaccines still offer important protection to Pennsylvanians who have already had COVID.
How Much Do Vaccines Cost?
Vaccine doses purchased with American dollars will be provided by the federal government at no cost.
Learn More
Get the latest vaccine updates and answers to frequently asked questions from the Department of Health. If you have questions about the vaccination process in Pennsylvania, call the Pennsylvania Department of Health hotline at 1-877-724-3258.
COVID-19 Dashboard
Pennsylvania’s COVID-19 Dashboard has the latest data on case counts and demographics, hospital preparedness, and testing.
Order Free COVID Tests
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free, at-home COVID-19 tests through the federal government.
COVID Mitigation in Pennsylvania
COVID-19 mitigation measures have been lifted in Pennsylvania.
All businesses and individuals are encouraged to follow CDC safety guidance.
Local Guidelines
Municipalities may continue to implement stricter mitigation efforts.
Suspended Regulations
See a list of suspended regulations here (updated 3/30/22).
Get Help
Businesses
Check the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development website for the most up-to-date information on resources and loans for businesses.
Credit Cards
If you are struggling to make your credit card or loan payments, contact your lender right away.
For guidance and recommendations, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guide on managing your finances or contact a credit counselor, who may have information about emergency credit card help, near you.
For Homeowners
The Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund is open to Pennsylvania homeowners as of February 1, 2022.
The fund supports homeowners with a household income at or below 150% of the area median income who are now grappling with unforeseen financial hardships due to COVID.
Applicants can receive assistance with mortgage reinstatements and payments, property charges, and utility payments.
For Renters
If you are at risk for eviction or loss of utility service help is now available through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Pennsylvanians can submit applications online at compass.state.pa.us.
Home heating help is available through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Learn more and apply for home-heating help.
Help paying for water bills is available. Learn more and apply for water assistance.
Food Assistance
- Apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for help paying for groceries.
- Find a food pantry near you.
- There are many other food assistance resources available. Find a comprehensive list on the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture website.
Mental Health Resources
It’s normal to feel stress around COVID-19.
Use the Mental Health Resources guide to find help and information.
