Idaho Health Department Barred from Administering COVID-19 Vaccines in Unprecedented Move
Southwest District Health in Idaho has ceased providing the public with COVID-19 vaccines following a board ruling. The board decision is unprecedented, marking the first time a US health department has been stopped from administering the vaccines. Motivated by declining vaccine demand in the district, the board’s decision has come despite the medical director’s testimony to the vaccines’ necessity. Many critics of the decision say it’s left vulnerable populations, such as homeless people and long term care facility residents, without vaccination options. Board chairman Kelly Aberasturi intends to bring up the issue at the next board meeting to ensure these vulnerable groups can access the vaccine.
John Q. Hosedrinker