Tiffany Eckert

Lane County Public Health officials say they are seeing a significant number of “no-shows” for their second dose of COVID-19 vaccine. They believe this may be due to fear of side effects. 

More than 75 Oregon county commissioners-- along with business advocates-- have penned a letter to Governor Kate Brown. They’re requesting reconsideration of the state’s approach to COVID-19 mitigation measures and restrictions.

Oregon Governor Kate Brown announced Tuesday, 15 counties, including Lane, Deschutes and Linn, will move to Extreme Risk for COVID-19 restrictions.

County risk levels go into effect across Oregon on Friday. That means new COVID-19 restrictions for some businesses. Here’s what can happen if a workplace refuses to comply.

On Thursday, the University of Oregon hosted its second of four planned COVID-19 vax clinics at Autzen Stadium—conducted especially for college students and staff.

Effective this Friday, 23 Oregon counties will move or remain in the High Risk level for COVID-19 restrictions. Some of them qualify for Extreme risk but weren’t moved there.

Due to a steady increase of new COVID-19 cases, Lane County is moving back up to the High risk category for coronavirus restrictions. The governor’s office announced the change will go into effect this Friday.

Oregon is one of the least prepared among states to serve residents who need and request treatment for substance abuse and addiction. Recently, the federal government approved a “waiver” system to cover treatment for members of the Oregon Health Plan.

Starting Monday, all Oregonians 16 years and older will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. Lane County Public Health is gearing up to provide more vaccination availability as new COVID-19 cases continue to surge.

Lane County health officials announced Tuesday they will cease administering any Johnson & Johnson vaccines to residents until further notice from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Lane County is seeing a disproportionately high number of younger adults being adversely affected by COVID-19.

There are currently no free-standing birthing facilities operating in Lane County. But that is about to change. A non-profit midwifery birth center recently found a new space to call home.

COVID-19 cases in Lane County continue to surge with several days last week seeing counts in the double digits. Officials say springtime activities have resulted in outbreaks. 

The second gentleman of the United States was in Eugene Monday. The husband of Vice President Kamala Harris visited a COVID-19 vaccination clinic and met with state and local leaders.

Now that COVID-19 vaccine eligibility has expanded, two Lane County organizations are ready to get shots in the arms of people experiencing homelessness—starting Thursday.

Throughout the U.S., Black, Indigenous and People of Color have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. To confront inequities and increase access to the vaccine, Lane County Public Health is using some targeted strategies.

Lane County Public Health announced Thursday they have identified two new viral outbreaks. They both resulted from social gatherings.

This week, the Oregon Health Authority expanded who can administer COVID-19 vaccines. The list now includes midwives, dentists, even veterinarians. The “all hands on deck” effort may increase efficiency in the long run but right now the biggest issue is vaccine supply.