The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

DAYTON—The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine has arrived in Columbia County. The Columbia County Health System (CCHS) has received 300 doses.

At this time, CCHS has started giving immunizations to healthcare workers and first-responders, and will advance to Phase 1B when given guidance to do so by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).

Columbia County Public Health will be organizing a list of interested individuals who would like the vaccination and fit into Phase 1B, which is currently defined as essential services, and Phase 1C, which is the 65+ and high-risk category. Please note that category 1B and 1C guidelines are still being developed and approved by DOH. Please call Public Health at (509) 382-2181 to get your name on the list for future vaccine distribution. Once additional vaccines are acquired and state guidance regarding vaccine distribution schedules is received, Public Health will provide additional information.

If you need a referral for a COVID-19 test, please contact your healthcare provider or Columbia County Public Health. For any questions regarding possible exposure, please contact Public Health at (509) 382-2181.