California Announces New Vaccine Standards

California announced new statewide vaccination standards last week aimed at “streamlining” what has become a slow and confusing process. The new standards will take effect mid-February and apply to all 58 counties.

Instead of the current patchwork of eligibility requirements, counties will start to “move in unison,” according to the state officials. Counties won’t have the same discretion to determine who should or should not get the vaccine.

To keep things simple, the new rules prioritize age regardless of pre-existing conditions. Specifically, all adults 65 and over will be prioritized for vaccinations statewide. Educators will also be prioritized, EdSource reports.

California is trying to improve what has been a less than stellar record so far. 5.5% of state residents have received their first dose, compared to 6.5% nationally.