The pandemic changed everything. Not only did much of the world come to a halt for a few months, but millions of Americans were forced to work from home. Many still are. And with the delta variant things are getting worse again which is increasing the cases. Tap or click here for an online tool that tracks the Delta version.
When the vaccine was released, it raised hopes that life would return to normal. It also brought a strange new requirement: proof you’ve been vaccinated for traveling, entering restaurants and public places.
With the introduction of the Vaccine Card, you can easily prove that you’ve got your shot by quickly coming and going. But what if you lose it, or it gets damaged beyond recognition? Here’s how to get a new one if you find yourself missing that handy piece of paper.
First, Always Have a Digital Back-up
Having a copy of anything never works. That’s why we recommend that you always keep a digital backup of your Vaccine Card. But how can you actually do that?
You have several options, including an obvious one. Simply take a picture of your Vaccine Card and store it in your wallet. You can do this with the help of Note app.
If you have an iPhone, open Notes and select the Camera icon. Then go to Scan Documents. Your camera will be visible, and you can make a digital copy of your vaccine card.
While Android phones don’t have a Notes app, you can use Google Drive to do the same thing. Open the Google Drive app, then select Add. Tap Scan. Once you’ve scanned your Vaccine card, you can tap on the three dots to store it with your starred documents for easy retrieval later.
Some states also offer vaccine passes through an app. For more information on how to keep a digital backup on your card, tap or click here.
I have lost my original copy, now what?
Before you panic, you can get a new one if you’ve lost your original copy and don’t have a backup. Unfortunately, the process varies greatly depending on where you live.
For example, in Arizona, you find the form to replace your card on the state’s website. Once you receive the form, you either mail it in, email or fax it.
Email is most likely to be backed up, and mail takes forever and leaves many opportunities for people to view your sensitive data. Faxing will be the least popular option, allowing you to get a replacement quickly.
If you live in California, there’s a handy digital version you can use to save yourself the hassle of carrying a paper card. Go here to fill in your personal details and press submit.
If you live in Connecticut, you have several options for getting a replacement, all detailed on its official website. You can call the official number or even ask your provider for a replacement. There is also an easy online option to download your new card.
What if I live somewhere else?
If you do not live in the states listed above, you can still get a replacement. Try entering the name of your state along with the lost vaccine card on Google and see if that pops up.
However, be careful with the search results. Scammers are bound to try and trick people with malicious links. It is best to stick to government websites or local news sites. Many local news stations have the information you need.
You may need to look for your county’s specific website, or if your state is smaller, you can check your state’s website. If that doesn’t work, you can always try calling your local provider to see if they can issue you another one.
f none of these work, contact your state health department for guidance.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, advice or health purposes.
