Howard Chiou, the Medical Director for Communicable Disease and Immunization at the Oregon Health Authority, recently reported that approximately 9% of Oregonians, equating to around 360,000 individuals, have received this season’s COVID-19 vaccine. This number marks a significant decrease of 21% compared to the same time last year. In contrast, flu vaccination rates are slightly higher, with about 1 million Oregonians having received their flu shot; however, this figure still represents a 5% decline from the previous year’s vaccination rate at this time.
Chiou highlighted that the trend of declining immunization rates has been evident over the past five years. Without comprehensive insights into the reasoning behind the choices of those opting out of vaccinations, the state lacks a clear understanding of the factors contributing to this downward trend. He noted that vaccination rates were significantly higher during the peak of the pandemic when the risks of severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths were most pronounced, suggesting that fear of illness may have driven higher vaccination rates.
The current guidance for COVID-19 vaccinations has narrowed, now recommending the vaccine primarily for individuals aged 65 and older and those with specific health risks, rather than everyone aged six months and older. The West Coast Health Alliance, a coalition that includes Oregon, Washington, California, and Hawaii, advises that the COVID-19 vaccine should be administered to anyone aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals or those planning to become pregnant, anyone with existing risk factors, and anyone else who wishes to receive the vaccine.
As Oregon enters this year’s respiratory virus season, Chiou cautioned that it is still too early to determine whether it will be mild or severe. Recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that the flu virus may be spreading more rapidly in certain regions of the country. According to the Oregon Health Authority’s FluBites data, 25 individuals from Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties were hospitalized with the flu between October 1 and November 15.
In light of these developments, Chiou urged Oregonians seeking either a flu or COVID-19 vaccine to visit the Oregon Health Authority’s website for more information. He also recommended that individuals consult their healthcare providers about vaccination options to ensure they are adequately protected against both illnesses. As the state grapples with these declining vaccination rates, the emphasis on public health education and outreach will be essential in encouraging residents to take preventive measures against respiratory viruses this season.
