As of Friday, Jan. 15, 2021, the WSVMA has received no further direction from the Dept. of Health (DOH) as to where the veterinary community fits into Washington State’s phased plan. We’ve heard many reports of veterinarians getting vaccinated but it’s dependent upon location, city, county, and other factors. Unlike Oregon and California, and despite Washington being a part of the Western State Pact, we are not included in Phase 1A, Tier 2.
DOH staff are working very hard to roll out the vaccine in a challenging regulatory environment in a once in a century pandemic. It’s a highly complex process. They’ve indicated they’ll release Phase 1B in the coming days and we hope that it will be specific and include veterinary medicine. It’s not just companion animal practice where veterinarians are at risk. 22 species have been infected to date, and veterinarians and staff who work in food safety, research, zoo, shelter and wildlife medicine are also at risk.
News about the virus and the vaccine, including availability, is changing daily. Please be patient and know that we’re working on it on your behalf.
Vaccine News
COVID-19 vaccine distribution update – Washington State Department of Health
Why Do I Still Need to Wear A Mask After Getting The COVID-19 Vaccine? – NPR
Posted January 15, 20201