CORVALLIS, Ore. – Concerns are mounting in Benton County as rising COVID-19 cases coincide with changes to federal vaccine guidelines, according to Benton County health officials.
According to Benton County Health Services (BCHS), new information on the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine is being shared to address community uncertainties. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the vaccine for adults 65 and older and individuals with high-risk health conditions. The Oregon Health Authority supports these guidelines and awaits further instructions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Vaccines can be obtained via health care providers or pharmacies with a prescription. Supplies are gradually arriving, and pharmacies may receive them first. BCHS advises checking with providers or pharmacies for availability and eligibility. Currently, BCHS does not have vaccines in stock, as they await further details from the CDC. They expect updates following the CDC’s Advisory Committee meeting on September 18-19. In the meantime, BCHS encourages the community to follow prevention methods like regular handwashing, staying home when sick, and wearing masks in crowded settings…