State Department of Health announces plans for new COVID-19 vaccine

OLYMPIA, Wash. — As the Johnson and Johnson single dose vaccine nears emergency authorization as early as today, state health officials are planning its distribution priority.

The Washington Department of Health says if approved, the vaccine will first be further vetted by the Western States Pact.

Then, state epidemiologist Dr. Scott Lindquist says initial supplies will first be targeted to workers in the maritime and fishing industries.

Lindquist said the J & J vaccine could also be helpful for agricultural workers.

The department reports it expects to receive almost 61 thousand doses of the vaccine next week.