Novel simply means new, so novel coronavirus is the new virus from the coronavirus family. The official name of the virus is Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) but that name is rarely used.

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.

Source: World Health Organization

• Although the overall risk of severe illness is low, pregnant people and recently pregnant people are at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 when compared to non-pregnant people.
• Having certain underlying medical conditions, and other factors, including age, can further increase a pregnant or recently pregnant (for at least 42 days following end of pregnancy) person’s risk for developing severe COVID-19 illness.
• Pregnant people with COVID-19 are also at increased risk for preterm birth (delivering the baby earlier than 37 weeks) and might be at increased risk for other poor pregnancy outcomes.
• Pregnant and recently pregnant people and those who live with or visit them need to take steps to protect themselves from getting sick with COVID-19.

If you would like to speak to someone about COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, please contact MotherToBaby. MotherToBaby experts are available to answer questions in English or Spanish by phone or chat. The free and confidential service is available Monday–Friday 8am–5pm (local time). To reach MotherToBaby:

• Call 1-866-626-6847
• Chat live or send an email MotherToBaby

Source: CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/pregnant-people.html

No – that would be discrimination. For information on your tenant rights and support available, visit: https://www.marincounty.org/depts/cd/divisions/housing/renter-and-landlord-resources

COVID-19 vaccines have been tested in large clinical trials (>30,000 participants) to assess their safety, a core analytical measure when studying all vaccines. However, it does take time and more people getting vaccinated before we learn about very rare or long-term side effects. That is why safety monitoring will continue. CDC has an independent group of experts that reviews all the safety data as it comes in and provides regular safety updates. If a safety issue is detected, immediate action will take place to determine if the issue is related to the COVID-19 vaccine and determine the best course of action. Getting the vaccine is still the safer choice than the serious risk of COVID-19 infection. 

To ensure the COVID-19 vaccine meets safety requirements, California formed a Scientific Safety Review Work Group comprised of nationally recognized immunization, public health, academic and other subject matter experts. The work group is staying abreast of vaccine candidate(s) trials, evidence of safety and efficacy, and other information to independently provide recommendations to California leadership and vaccine planning efforts as well as ensure public confidence in vaccine safety, efficacy, and implementation efforts.

Learn more about the COVID-19 Vaccine in Marin County on our vaccine information webpage.

Most people do not have serious problems after being vaccinated. This type of vaccine (i.e. mRNA vaccine) has a unique modality making it safer than many.  However, your arm may be sore, red, or warm to the touch. These symptoms usually go away on their own <72 hours. Some people report getting a headache or fever when getting a vaccine. These side effects are a sign that your immune system is doing exactly what it is supposed to do. It is working and building up protection for the disease.