The Oregon Health Authority has issued a standing order allowing vaccine providers statewide to begin administering updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season starting this weekend, the agency announced.
The order aligns with recommendations from the West Coast Health Alliance, a partnership between California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington, and comes as people prepare for the respiratory virus season.
State Epidemiologist and Health Officer Dean Sidelinger said the measure is critical for public health. "We are delighted that anyone who wants protection can get the COVID-19 vaccine starting this weekend," Sidelinger said. "I join my public health colleagues in the other West Coast Health Alliance member states in celebrating this important step toward ensuring our communities are well prepared for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season."
The standing order prioritizes vaccination for people at highest risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes, including children younger than 2, adults 65 and older, people of any age with underlying medical conditions, pregnant individuals, previously unvaccinated children, those living in congregate settings, and health care workers, according to the authority.
The vaccine is also available to anyone between ages 2 and 65 who chooses to get it, as in previous respiratory virus seasons, the authority said.
People can find a vaccination provider by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic, or federally qualified health center. They can also search by ZIP code at vaccines.gov, call 211, or visit 211info.org.