Information about COVID-19 Vaccination Availability at Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge

What you need to know: 

  • North Carolina Currently Eligible: 

  • Anyone ages 12+ who wants a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccination!

  • Adults ages 18+ can receive any of the three FDA approved vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson). People ages 12 - 17 can only receive the Pfizer vaccine.

  • It is recommended that you talk to your doctor before getting the vaccine if you have a weakened immune system due to conditions like cancer, a medication you’re taking, or if you’re pregnant.

  • More info: Find your spot to take your shot | NC DHHS COVID--19

  • There is no out of pocket cost for the vaccine for anyone. 

  • There are three different types of vaccines. All vaccines offered are safe, effective and FDA- EUA approved:

  • Moderna: series of two shots given 4 weeks apart.

  • Pfizer: series of two shots given 3 weeks apart.

  • Johnson & Johnson: one shot only needed.

  • Due to supply, unless under 18 years old, we cannot guarantee which vaccine you will receive at your appointment. Currently, BRMG is administering Pfizer and Moderna vaccines at their locations.

  • Vaccination Events:  

  • During the first part of our vaccine efforts, we had Mass Vaccination Clinics at Freedom High School. As of April 17th, we will no longer be offering first dose clinics at Freedom High but will be transitioning to offering vaccines in our Medical Group.

  • We are now offering First and Second doses at Blue Ridge Medical Group Primary Care Practices and Urgent/Express Cares. If you received first dose Moderna at FHS, you may reach out to the Burke County Health Department to schedule your second dose.


  • BRMG Vaccine Locations:

  • You may receive your vaccine at the time of another appointment, or you may call to make an appointment for your vaccine.

  • Blue Ridge Urgent Care and WELLWORx- 828-580-3278

  • Cajah Mountain Medical & Express Care- 828-782-8224

  • Drexel Medical Practice- 828-580-4080

  • Family Medical Associates- 828-580-4010

  • Lenoir Family Medicine & Express Care- 828-580-4660

  • McDowell Family Practice- Coming Soon

  • McDowell Medical Associates & Express Care- Marion - 828-652-8727

  • McDowell Medical Associates- Nebo- 828-659-9703

  • Table Rock Family Medicine- 828-580-1400

  • Valdese Medical Associates & Express Care- 828-874-4600

  • Blue Ridge Cardiology and Internal Medicine Marion- 828-580-1364

  • Blue Ridge Geriatrics- 828-580-5706

  • Women’s Health Group- 828-580-4661

  • Mountain Valley Health Center 828-580-2700


  • All Family Medicine Offices are offering Vaccines throughout the week by appointment only.

  • Walk ins welcome at Urgent & Express Cares; Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm or Sunday 2pm-8pm


  • How to schedule a vaccine appointment:  

  • First dose appointments can be scheduled by calling one of the vaccine locations.

  • Your second dose appointment will be scheduled at the time of your first dose administration.

  • If you received your first dose at Freedom High School,

  • Moderna First Dose; call the Burke County Health Department 828-764-9150

  • Pfizer First Dose; call your Primary Care Office or walk-in at any of our Urgent Care/Express Care locations.

  • If a patient HAS received the vaccine and is concerned about adverse reactions to the vaccine 

  • Common side effects: Redness, swelling, and pain at the shot site are common and usually go away within 48 hours.  

  • Less common side effects: Some people who receive the vaccine may experience chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, diarrhea, tiredness, or a low-grade fever.

  • If you have these or other side effects after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, please call your PCP and ask to speak to a provider or nurse. 

  • Getting the COVID Vaccine after other vaccines, treatment or having COVID:

  • The COVID-19 vaccine series should be administered alone with a minimum interval of 14 days before or after other vaccines. Patients who have received another vaccine should wait 14 days before getting the COVID vaccine.

  • COVID-19 vaccine can be given to person who received monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma for treatment of COVID-19 but should wait at least 90 days after they received treatment.

  • Patients who have had COVID-19 may receive the vaccine once they are out of quarantine and are symptom free (i.e., cough, fever).

  • What happens after I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

  • Wait 15 minutes before leaving. For your safety, we ask that you wait 15 minutes after getting the vaccine before you leave.

  • Make sure to get both doses. The first shot gets your immune system ready. It helps your body recognize the virus and fight it if you’re exposed.

  • Hang on to your vaccination card. This is proof you got the COVID-19 vaccine. It shows what type of COVID-19 vaccine you got and when you got it. You can also take a photo of this card, so you always have a copy on hand.

  • How is the vaccine given?

  • The COVID-19 vaccine is given in a series of 2 shots of the same vaccine, given a few weeks apart. As with all appointments at Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge, these vaccines will be given in COVID-Safe places. We'll ensure physical distancing and have proper personal protective equipment (PPE) on patients and staff. Parking is handicap accessible.