West Coast Health Alliance Issues New COVID-19 Vaccination Recommendations
TL/DR –
The West Coast Health Alliance, a group formed by the states of Oregon, Washington, California, and Hawaii, has issued new vaccination recommendations beyond federal guidelines for the COVID-19 vaccine; these states encourage anyone aged six months and older to receive the vaccine if they desire. This move is part of a series of actions by these states to create their own immunization policies, particularly for COVID-19 vaccines, instead of relying solely on federal recommendations. The new guidelines follow those of major medical groups and advise that children and adults under 65 with underlying health conditions, people aged 65 and older, and healthy individuals in close contact with people with health conditions should receive the vaccine.
West Coast States’ New Vaccine Recommendations Overstep Federal Guidance
Oregon, Washington, California and Hawaii, members of the newly formed West Coast Health Alliance, have released their latest vaccine recommendations for the upcoming respiratory virus season. These new guidelines surpass federal suggestions by encouraging COVID-19 vaccines for anyone over 6 months.
These Democratic-led states have been progressively establishing their own immunization policies, particularly for COVID-19 vaccines, steering away from solely relying on federal recommendations. They aim to keep vaccine policy science-focused rather than politically influenced.
The governors’ new advice aligns with the guidance of major medical groups, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “Our states are united in putting science, safety, and transparency first,” affirmed the governors in a joint statement.
The recommendations largely mirror broader guidance previously issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They suggest COVID-19 vaccines for high-risk groups including individuals with underlying health conditions, people 65 and older, and those in close contact with high-risk individuals.
Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized updated COVID-19 vaccines for seniors and certain younger Americans – excluding healthy children and young adults. However, the CDC’s committee responsible for reviewing vaccines and setting national guidelines has yet to provide clear instructions.
The absence of clear guidelines from the CDC’s vaccine panel has caused confusion about vaccine eligibility, insurance coverage, and the legal provision of the vaccine in Oregon. The impact of the new state recommendations on Oregonians’ vaccine access remains uncertain as the state pharmacy board’s regulations are still tied to the CDC’s vaccine guidelines, due for review this week.
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