Data is showing how the COVID-19 vaccines are protecting New Yorkers against infection and illness. Since mid-January, the vast majority of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths in NYC are occurring in unvaccinated people.
Between January 17 and August 17, people who are unvaccinated in NYC accounted for:
- 96.1% of all COVID-19 cases
- 96.9% of COVID-19 hospitalizations
- 97.3% of COVID-19 deaths
As cases have increased recently, the rate of infections in vaccinated people — called breakthrough infections — has also increased. However, the most recent data show the crude case rate for unvaccinated people remains 2.6 times higher than it is for fully vaccinated people.
After you are fully vaccinated (two weeks after your single-dose vaccine or second dose of a two-dose vaccine), you are much less likely to become sick or spread the virus that causes COVID-19.
When You Are Fully Vaccinated
- All activities become safer.
- You should still wear masks in some settings:
- You do not need to wear a mask outdoors or when gathering with friends and family at home or in other private settings.
- Masks are still required in schools, on public transportation, in health care settings and in certain congregate settings, such as nursing homes and homeless shelters, and at any other setting if designated by a business or location.
- We recommend wearing a mask in all other public indoor settings, even when it is not required, as well as in any setting when you do not know the vaccination status of those around you.
- Keep your mask on if you are around unvaccinated people who are at increased risk for severe COVID-19.
- You no longer need to quarantine after exposure to someone with COVID-19.
- You no longer need to get tested for COVID-19, unless you have symptoms of COVID-19 or a recent exposure, or testing is required for work, school or a specific activity.
Even after you are vaccinated, you should still wash your hands regularly and stay home if you are sick or test positive for COVID-19.
If you have a condition or are taking medicines that weaken your immune system, you may not be protected even if you are fully vaccinated. You should continue to take all precautions recommended for unvaccinated people until advised otherwise by your health care provider.
To find a vaccine site near you, visit https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/ or call 1-877-VAX-4NYC (1-877-829-4692 to schedule an appointment.
Free Transportation and In-Home Vaccinations
City residents 65 and older can get free transportation to and from a vaccination appointment. This service is also available for those with disabilities who have no other way to get to a vaccination site.
To schedule free transport by either ambulette or taxi (including wheelchair accessible vehicles), call 877-VAX-4NYC (877-829-4692). If you are younger than 18, you must have your parent or guardian call to book the trip on your behalf.
Please share the information with your friends, family and networks.
