The governors of Oregon, Washington, California, and Hawaii have united to form the West Coast Health Alliance, a coalition aimed at countering the policies and recommendations put forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This alliance was deemed necessary due to concerns that the agency's guidelines are becoming increasingly politicized under the leadership of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a well-known advocate against vaccines.
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new COVID-19 booster shot but restricted its availability primarily to individuals over the age of 65 and those deemed at high risk. In response, the West Coast Health Alliance has proactively released their own recommendations, emphasizing that anyone wishing to receive the vaccine should have the opportunity to do so. “This is preserving choice for anyone in Oregon who’s choosing protection from COVID-19 with a safe and effective vaccine for their child or for themselves,” stated Dr. Dean Sidelinger, the state’s health officer, during an interview on OPB’s “Think Out Loud.”
During the interview, Dave Miller asked Dr. Sidelinger about the distinctions between the recommendations of the West Coast Health Alliance and those of the federal government. Sidelinger emphasized that although there is some alignment, particularly concerning individuals over 65 and those with underlying health conditions, the governors wanted to ensure that their recommendations were firmly grounded in scientific evidence. “We wanted to make sure that we could come out with recommendations that say, ‘OK, here are our recommendations, here’s why we’re saying that,’” he explained.
The West Coast Health Alliance's recommendations include a broader scope than the FDA's guidelines. They advocate for everyone aged six months and older to have access to the vaccine. However, they also highlight specific groups at higher risk, such as:
Individuals aged 65 and older, who face the highest hospitalization rates related to COVID-19. Children under the age of 2, who also experience significant hospitalization rates. Individuals with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or lung disease. Residents of congregate living settings, like nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Healthcare workers and others in high-exposure occupational settings.Dr. Sidelinger noted that the recommendations are designed to empower individuals to make informed choices about vaccination based on their own circumstances and health status.
When asked how the four states developed their recommendations, Dr. Sidelinger explained that health officials across these states collaborated to review existing data. They compiled their findings into a report that was made publicly available, allowing experts to ask questions and engage with the presented information. This collaborative effort included input from established medical societies, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which contributed to creating tailored recommendations for specific populations.
In discussing the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. Sidelinger highlighted that while the vaccine is highly effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalization, the duration of protection against initial infection may not be as prolonged. “What we can say very definitively is the vaccine is very efficacious,” he stated. Although some individuals may still contract COVID-19 months after vaccination, the likelihood of severe illness remains significantly reduced.
As of the recent announcement, Oregonians seeking the COVID-19 booster will be able to access it without the need for a prescription, thanks to new protocols established by the state. Additionally, the state has assured that vaccination will remain free of charge for patients covered by Medicaid and other state-regulated insurers. Dr. Sidelinger emphasized the importance of checking with individual insurers regarding coverage, especially for those with plans that are federally regulated.
In light of the political landscape surrounding vaccines, Dr. Sidelinger expressed concerns about the long-term implications for public health. He acknowledged the struggles faced by public health professionals and emphasized the importance of preserving choice for individuals seeking vaccine protection. “This is preserving choice for anyone in Oregon who’s choosing protection from COVID-19,” he reiterated, underscoring the alliance's commitment to informed decision-making amidst a polarized public health environment.
As the West Coast Health Alliance continues to advocate for public health, their focus remains on providing clear, science-based information to help individuals make healthy choices for themselves and their families.
