Even if you haven't gotten your COVID-19 shot yet, you may have seen pictures of a "vaccination card" on the news or social media. When you do show up to get immunized, you'll get one of those nifty CDC-issued cards, too. What is the purpose of this card? What should you do with it? And what should you not do with it?

We got answers from Donna Leang, a pharmacist manager at Cedars-Sinai.

The CDC doesn't keep a registry of who has been vaccinated against COVID-19, so your card is proof that you've gotten your shot. Along with your name and date of birth, it displays which vaccine and lot you received on what date, so you can get the right vaccine—at the right time—for your second dose.

If you're among the few people to get serious side effects from an approved COVID-19 vaccine, the lot number can also help officials figure out if there's a problem with a whole batch. Finally, the card is a great way to help you track your history of vaccination against a virus we're still learning about.

Researchers are still figuring out how long immunity lasts, for example, and if we'll need booster shots, or even a new shot each year.

Follow these tips:

• Take a photo to capture the info that's on the card, in case you lose it.
• Laminate the card after your second shot for extra protection from spills or wear and tear.
• Keep your card in a safe place with other important documents.
• Bring it with you when you show up for your second dose.
• Hang on to your card even after you've been fully vaccinated; you may need it to access various services in the future. As the economy continues to reopen, some businesses and employers may require proof of vaccination. Internationally, countries may ask travelers to show proof of vaccination before they can enter.