Dartmouth Health will offer the COVID-19 vaccine in the coming weeks
We are committed to making the COVID-19 vaccine accessible. Please check back for updates.
If you wish to get vaccinated sooner, many local retail pharmacies are offering the vaccine now. You can visit their website to make an appointment.
Recent reports show that COVID-19 infections are rising in many parts of the country. Even a mild case of COVID-19 can sometimes lead to lasting problems. We want to remind you that research confirms vaccination to be the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious complications and illness.
On this page:
- Dartmouth Health COVID-19 vaccine recommendations
- COVID-19 vaccine insurance coverage
- COVID-19 testing information
- COVID-19 treatments
- COVID-19 information in other languages
- Community and employee relief funds
Dartmouth Health COVID-19 vaccine recommendations
The FDA recently updated the COVID-19 vaccines for the 2026-2027 respiratory season. Dartmouth Health encourages any person 6 months of age and older to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. It is especially important for higher-risk individuals to get the vaccine as soon as possible. This includes people who are over 65 or who have:
- Cancer
- Chronic health conditions
- Organ transplants
- Never received a COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 vaccines for children
Please refer to the Dartmouth Health Children's website for more information.
COVID-19 vaccines for adults
The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends vaccination for all adults 18 years and older. Individuals at higher-risk for severe illness due to COVID-19 should get the vaccine as soon as possible. If you are moderately or severely immunocompromised, you may benefit from additional vaccine doses.
COVID-19 vaccines for people who are planning pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding
We recommend getting the COVID-19 vaccine if you are:
- Pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Postpartum
- Breastfeeding
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and The Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine also recommend this.
COVID-19 vaccines for people with cancer or weakened immune systems
If you have cancer or have a weakened immune system, we recommend getting vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine will reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. We also recommend that anyone in close contact with you get vaccinated.
Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.
We encourage you to review the following websites for additional information about COVID-19 vaccines.
- Vaccine to Prevent COVID-19 (Healthwise patient education library)
- New Hampshire: COVID-19 Vaccine
- Vermont Department of Health: COVID-19 Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccine insurance coverage
- Medicaid and Medicare continue to cover the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Most private and employer health insurance plans also continue to cover COVID-19 vaccines.
If you have questions about your insurance coverage, please contact your insurance provider. Dartmouth Health provides financial assistance for those who are unable to pay for their medical care based on their individual financial situation. Pfizer also provides financial assistance through their Paxcces Patient Support Program.
COVID-19 testing information
When you should get tested for COVID-19
You should get tested for COVID-19 if you:
- Have symptoms of COVID-19
- Have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19
You can get at-home COVID-19 tests online, at pharmacies, and at other retail stores.
What to do if you have a positive COVID-19 test
If you test positive, you should stay home. Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care. Do not visit public areas. If you have trouble breathing, or any questions about your care, call your primary care provider.
Get medical care immediately if:
- Your breathing becomes so hard that you can't catch your breath
- You have pain or pressure in the chest
- You experience new confusion
- You are unable to wake or stay awake
- There are changes in color on your lips, gums, face, or around the eyes or nails
Call 911 or report to the nearest Emergency Department. Tell your healthcare provider or 911 that you have COVID-19 and are isolating at home.
COVID-19 treatments
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized or approved antiviral medications to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19. These therapies are for use in individuals who are at high risk of getting severe disease if infected with COVID-19.
Note: These treatments are not alternatives to getting vaccinated or wearing a mask.
Note: Paxlovid is endorsed for use for pregnant women by the Society for Maternal Medicine and by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Please contact your primary care provider to determine your best treatment option for COVID-19.
If you have any questions after your treatment about side effects or your COVID-19 symptoms, please follow up with your primary care provider.
COVID-19 information in other languages
The following COVID-19 resources are provided in languages other than English.
Resources for non-English speaking or Limited English Proficient (LEP) community members
American Sign Language video series
Community and employee relief funds
Dartmouth Health Home Care Donations
Dartmouth Health Home Care COVID-19 fund will enable an expansion of services. Traditionally, telehealth and video visits, diabetic foot service, medication, and blood pressure monitoring are not reimbursed in home health and hospice. Expanding services to include these needs allows Dartmouth Health Home Care to care for patients in their homes, while lowering the risk of exposure to COVID-19.
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinics HOPE Fund
The Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) and Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinics HOPE Fund was established in November 2018 to provide emergency assistance to employees experiencing financial crises due to unforeseen situations such as family emergencies, illness, spousal job loss and natural disasters. The Fund has broadened to include the hardships some employees face due to COVID-19.
Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center HOPE Fund
MAHHC HOPE Fund assists Mt. Ascutney Hospital employees who are experiencing hardships or financial emergencies. The Fund is supported solely by donations and was initially funded with MAHHC employee donations. The HOPE Fund is dependent upon continued community support to help our health care workers.