Dear patients and friends,

A shorter note this week, but worth a quick update all the same. In the United States, both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are currently being distributed. A third vaccine from AstraZeneca has just been approved in the U.K. and is undergoing safety trials in the United States. With each new approval we can hope to see greater availability and distribution.

Locally, health care workers are well into the vaccination process. As of this morning, over 25,000 people have received a vaccine. I, Dr. Biemer, was able to get part one of the vaccine this week along with other Providence health care providers.

We do understand that the big question for most is when the vaccine will be available to you. We are also anxiously awaiting news on this and researching daily. At this point Oregon Health Authority has not made any announcements regarding an expected timeline. Washington County makes it clear that there is not currently a sign up or wait list available, but that it will be widely published and advertised when more is known.

A few resources that we expect to be updated frequently...

Oregon Health Authority vaccine FAQ

Washington County Vaccine Information

We are well on our way but even with an end in sight, this process may feel painfully slow. It will take time to produce and distribute enough vaccine to see an appreciable difference in day to day life. Our note to you is hang in there. It's coming. Be patient, stay safe, and stay tuned. We will do our absolute best to keep up with the news and to keep you informed.

Happy New Year to you all!

Sincerely,