2020 had its ups and downs regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, however, there is hope in 2021 and going forward. Sonoma County developed plans to immunize all local residents and prevent further outbreak. 

The County has vaccinated approximately 100,000 residents with their first dose and approximately 32,000 residents with their second and final dose. Overall, Sonoma County has distributed a total of 162,176 doses of the vaccine as of Jan. 26, according to SoCo Emergency. This data does not include the vaccines distributed by CVS or Walgreens, as those are maintained and administered by the federal government.  

According to SoCo Emergency, there are three tiers or phases of distribution. Phase 1a of the vaccine distribution process comes first and covers all high-risk healthcare personnel, such as first responders, hospital staff, assisted living facility staff, and many others who work closely with patients. Next, phase 1b covers individuals that are 75 years and older. On the other hand, it has not made its way to individuals aged 65-74 and those at risk of exposure working in education or childcare, emergency services, food and agriculture. Phase 1b has also not covered transportation services and the homeless. Lastly, phase 1c has not even come into effect yet. This section covers individuals 16-64 years of age who have an underlying health condition or disability which increases their risk of COVID-19. 

Amidst increasing demand, Sonoma County is working on completing all three phases of distribution to ensure the safety of individuals and the prevention of further outbreak in the area. According to Sonoma County’s website, “COVID-19 vaccination efforts are kicking into high gear with five clinics now activated throughout the County and at least two more planned for the coming weeks.” Each clinic plans to give out around 420 vaccinations a day of approximately 2,500 total starting with residents 75 and above.   

Sonoma State University alumni Devin Eastman has been working as a healthcare worker with the title of a neurofeedback technician treating patients with various mental and physical disorders at Brain Builders Neurotherapy. She has been treating older, high-risk patients with neurocognitive decline and other demographics in person since the beginning of this pandemic. With the neurological effects of COVID-19, all patients in Eastman’s practice are typically considered high-risk. “The process of receiving the vaccination was very efficient, professional, and safe. I left the site within an hour of my arrival and they were very thorough in informing me of side effects, next steps, and what being vaccinated means as far as my risk of infection and spread,” said Eastman. 

The remaining question is how is one eligible to get vaccinated? Well, the vaccine has its own risk factors depending on existing medical conditions, and exposure to living and working conditions. Not to mention individuals going about our daily lives and running other necessary errands. Soco Emergency states that, “Individuals who are eligible to be vaccinated should first contact their health-care provider or primary care physician for information on how they can receive a vaccine or to make an appointment.” 

Although 2020 was a tough year, there is hope in due time. With Sonoma County’s distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, essential workers are ensuring the safety in this community. It’s a massive undertaking with many different components, but it is comforting to know people are doing their part to put an end to COVID-19.