PA To Text Message COVID-19 Second-Dose Vaccine Reminders

HARRISBURG, PA —More than 250,000 Pennsylvania residents will receive a text message reminding them to get the second shot of the two-shot coronavirus vaccine they have yet to receive.

Acting state Health Secretary Alison Beam said at a news briefing that the text messaging campaign will begin next week. It will target those who received a first dose between December 14 and May 14 but for whatever reason have failed to get a second dose.

“While the recommendation is to get the second dose within 42 days for best results, it is never too late to get your second dose," Beam said. "You do not have to start over.”

The text message will emphasize that the potent COVID-19 delta variant is here and encourage them to check vaccines.gov to find a provider nearby. Beam said the second shot will provide greater protection against the Delta strain.

With the variant on the rise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that people wear masks indoors where virus transmission rates are high. Most Pennsylvania counties do not meet that threshold, and Beam reiterated there are no plans for a statewide mask mandate.

According to the CDC, as of Thursday, July 28, Pennsylvania ranks 5th among all 50 states for total doses administered, with 62.6 percent of people age 18 and older - or nearly 5.7 million people - being fully vaccinated.

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