Gentle giant eases vaccine anxiety, one cuddle at a time

A stocky, blond bullmastiff named Showdown Wanna Do Bad Things once ruled the local show dog circuit, winning Champion of the Rose City Classic show in 2015. Since then he’s added a few credentials to his name, now Ch. Showdown Wanna Do Bad Things TH CGC (that’s Ch for champion, TH for Therapy Dog and […]

Looking for a COVID-19 vaccine or booster?

You can protect yourself against all COVID-19 variants by getting vaccinated and getting a booster if you are eligible. Sites around the state are accommodating large numbers of people seeking vaccinations. These “high-volume” sites offer all three COVID-19 vaccines and are open to everyone eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination or booster. There is no cost and you do not need to register.

Booster shots highlighted in new breakthrough case report

Last week, Oregon Health Authority updated its weekly breakthrough report to include breakthrough cases in people who have received booster doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. This new set of data shows how well booster doses can protect against COVID-19 infection and severe disease. In the report, a graph divides case numbers into three categories, “unvaccinated,” […]

Facing His Fear Lying Down

When Antonio Gonzalez showed up recently for his COVID booster, it was all he could do not to turn and walk out. But intent on doing his part to keep himself and others safe, he stayed – even though it meant he could pretty much count on passing out. Gonzalez suffers from trypanophobia – the fear of needles, a fear that has plagued him nearly all his life. 

Flu is still circulating, and you still have time to get protected against it

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) anticipates an increase in flu activity this year over last year. This is because low flu activity last year means less community protection this year, plus we don’t have the restrictions we had last year – kids are in school and businesses are open.

Vaccine Voices: ‘Opportunity to share happiness during these stressful times’

Oregon communities continue to impress, coming together in thoughtful, creative and giving ways to stay connected and healthy. On Dec. 10, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) and the Latino Community Association (LCA) hosted a fun and successful vaccination event at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Nearly 250 adults and children received free COVID-19 vaccines, boosters and/or […]

FDA, CDC, Western States authorize booster doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 16- and 17-year-olds

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Western States Scientific Safety Review Committee today authorized for emergency use the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for 16- and 17-year-olds, at least six months after they received their second shot of that vaccine.

Madras vaccination clinic doubles as block party and resource fair

To improve access to vaccines and community resources, Thrive Central Oregon and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) recently held a Fiesta del Barrio – Community Block Party and Resource Fair – at an affordable housing property in Madras where many agricultural workers and their families live.

Looking for a COVID-19 vaccine or booster?

You can protect yourself against all COVID-19 variants by getting vaccinated and getting a booster if you are eligible. Sites around the state are accommodating large numbers of people seeking vaccinations. These “high-volume” sites offer all three COVID-19 vaccines and are open to everyone eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination or booster. There is no cost and you do not need to register.

Ways to enjoy the holiday season safely

It’s important to celebrate and be with people you care about during the holiday season. And because all adults and many children are now eligible for vaccination, safety guidance has loosened up a little since last year.