All Oregon residents over the age of 16 will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine on April 19, Governor Kate Brown announced on Tuesday, almost two weeks earlier than originally planned.
Broad vaccine eligibility was previously expected on May 1.
The shift comes at a time when communities across Oregon and the country are working to get vaccines before more infectious variants of the virus can establish themselves.
“We are stuck in a race between the distribution of the vaccine and the rapid spread of COVID-19 variants,” Brown said in a statement. “Today, Oregon will exceed the limit of 2 million doses of vaccine administered. And yet, in communities across Oregon, COVID-19 is spreading at worrying rates. “
Oregon now averages 423 cases a day last week, and hospitalizations on Monday skyrocketed to 177. Both are the highest levels in seven weeks – but substantially below their respective peak drops.
Brown emphasized that, even with an early eligibility date, his office will work to ensure that needy populations have access to the vaccine.
“It is critical that we continue to focus on equity in our vaccine distribution efforts. Black, indigenous, Latino, Latino, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, tribal and colored communities in Oregon have been disproportionately affected by this disease, ”said Brown. “We must reach the inhabitants of Oregon where they are, including those who may not have easy access to healthcare or the ability to take time off work.”
Brown’s announcement came just hours before President Joe Biden was expected to make a similar announcement promoting the expansion of vaccine eligibility across the country, according to the Associated Press.
Brown and public health officials are expected to make an announcement on Tuesday about county-level risk assessments, which govern COVID’s restrictions.
This story will be updated.
– Kale Williams; [email protected]; 503-294-4048; @sfkale