Skip to main content

COVID-19

Frequently asked questions

For updates on Philadelphia’s current risk level, case counts, and hospitalizations, see Updates.

If you have questions that are not answered on this page, please call (215) 685-5488 or email publichealthinfo@phila.gov.

Jump to:

About COVID-19

What is COVID-19?

More +

How can you keep from catching COVID-19?

More +

How do you treat COVID-19?

More +

What should you do if you think you have COVID-19?

More +

Are people who have recovered from COVID-19 immune to it? How do I know if I’ve been reinfected?

More +

If I have an underlying health condition such as diabetes or moderate to severe asthma, what should I do if I develop fever, cough, or shortness of breath?

More +

Contact tracing

Does the Health Department do any contact tracing for COVID-19?

More +

Children and families

What is the current mask/vaccination guidance for schools K-12 and early childhood education settings?

More +

Can young children get the COVID-19 vaccine?

More +

Are there any treatments available for children with COVID-19?

More +

Can I get my mammogram after I get my shot? Does the shot cause breast cancer?

More +

Pregnancy

Can pregnant people get the vaccine?

More +

Is getting sick with COVID-19 more dangerous if I’m pregnant and for the growing fetus?

More +

Can pregnant people with COVID-19 pass the virus to their fetus or newborn?

More +

Are infants born to people with COVID-19 during pregnancy at increased risk for adverse outcomes?

More +

Is there a risk that COVID-19 in a pregnant person or newborn could have long-term effects on infant health and development that may require clinical support beyond infancy?

More +

What is known about COVID-19 and breastfeeding?

More +

Masks and businesses

When and where is it “strongly recommended” to mask?

More +

I’m a business owner. Can I require my customers to wear a mask?

More +

Are masks required in schools?

More +

Are there any settings where masks are still required?

More +

I have a mask (or N95 respirator) with a valve/vent. Is this type of mask effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19?

More +

When can employees who have had COVID-19 or possible COVID-19 return to work safely?

More +

Getting tested

Who should get tested?

More +

Where can I get tested in Philadelphia?

More +

How can I get my test results?

More +

What should I do while I am waiting for my test results?

More +

If I previously tested positive, how do I know when I can stop isolating?

More +

Staying safe

What precautions are recommended for people who have been fully vaccinated?

More +

What else can I do to keep from getting sick?

More +

What should I do if I feel sick?

More +

When can employees who have had COVID-19 or possible COVID-19 return to work safely?

More +

Should people with asthma or other breathing problems use masks?

More +

How should I take care of someone who is sick and may have COVID-19?

More +

Vaccines

Why should I get the vaccine?

More +

Am I eligible to get the vaccine?

More +

Where can I get the vaccine?

More +

How many doses of vaccine will I need?

More +

Who is eligible to get a booster shot?

More +

Who may receive the updated booster shot?

More +

How do COVID-19 vaccines work?

More +

Is there a cost for the vaccine?

More +

Can children get the COVID-19 vaccine?

More +

Should I get the vaccine if my blood test is positive for COVID-19 antibodies?

More +

Should I get the vaccine if I have already tested positive for COVID-19?

More +

How long does protection against COVID-19 last if I receive the vaccine?

More +

How does safety testing for vaccines work and how do we know the vaccine is safe?

More +

Is the vaccine safe for African Americans? Was the vaccine tested on African Americans?

More +

Can I get COVID-19 from getting vaccinated?

More +

What are the possible side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine?

More +

What happens if someone loses their vaccine card?

More +

Is COVID-19 vaccination required in Philadelphia?

More +

Travel

How can I travel safely?

More +

Do I need to wear a face mask on public transportation?

More +

Is a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination required for international travel?

More +

Does the CDC require quarantine after international travel?

More +

What restrictions do other countries have in place that may affect U.S. travelers?

More +

Is a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination required for domestic travel?

More +

Am I required to quarantine after domestic travel?

More +


Top