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Dear Neighbor,
Today I learned that the first shipments of the COVID-19 vaccine have arrived here in King County. This is a major step in the fight to end this crisis and return life back to normal.
I know many of you have lots of questions about what’s next and what we can do to make sure our community and loved ones are protected. We don’t have all the answers quite yet, but I wanted to pass along the latest information I have received from state and local officials.
- The Pfizer vaccine is a two-dose vaccine, given 21 days apart. Clinical trial data shows the vaccine is 95% effective at preventing the COVID-19 infection and there are no major unanticipated adverse events. Individuals will not be considered fully protected until 1 to 2 weeks after they receive the second dose.
- In the state’s plan, the first doses will be administered to high-risk health workers, as well as staff and residents of long-term care facilities. Roughly 500,000 people in Washington will be eligible for the vaccine during this initial phase alone. More details about phase 1a, can be found here.
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The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will share more information about who will be vaccinated in later phases. You can view the state’s interim plan by visiting the coronavirus vaccine webpage at www.CovidVaccineWA.org. If everything goes as planned, the hope is that the majority of Washingtonians will be vaccinated by mid-summer.
As soon as I receive more information on the vaccine and future vaccination phases, I’ll reach out. For more information on COVID-19 testing, vaccines and resources here in King County, please visit my COVID-19 webpage at https://kingcounty.gov/council/upthegrove/COVID-19.aspx.
Please remember to follow all public health guidelines so that we do not spread the virus. While my staff and I are all working remotely, we are still available to serve you during the pandemic. Please don't hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance.
Sincerely,
Dave
King County Councilmember
District 5
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