THE VACCINE ARRIVES IN ORANGE COUNTY
TOP LEFT: Citizens line up at the Disneyland Resort POD site in Anaheim. TOP RIGHT: Pfizer vaccinations at the ready. BOTTOM LEFT: Vaccination being administered. BOTTOM RIGHT: Volunteer at Soka University POD Site holds up a sign for the next recipient.
The first vaccine for COVID-19 was administered in the United States on December 14, 2020, marking a turning point in the country’s battle with the virus. Pfizer’s initial supply of 2.9 million doses began to be distributed throughout the country and arrived in Orange County on December 17. Michael Lowman, a nurse at Providence St. Joseph Hospital, was the first Orange County resident to receive the vaccine. The State of California developed a system of Phases and Tiers that prioritizes vaccinating our most vulnerable populations first. These guidelines were designed and put in place to ensure speedy and equitable administration of the vaccine statewide. Initially the vaccine was reserved only for healthcare workers fighting the virus on the frontlines. As more vaccine supply has been produced and made available, California has opened more tiers
8
Co u nt y Conn e c t ion
and is now vaccinating all tiers in Phase IA. This includes healthcare workers, first responders and residents over the age of 65. On January 7, Orange County unveiled Operation Independence. This partnership between County officials and the Orange County Fire Authority was launched with the goal of getting residents fully vaccinated by Independence Day 2021. Part of that goal is the establishment of at least five regional mass distribution sites, called Super PODs (point of dispensing). These Super PODs aim to vaccinate thousands of residents daily at each site once opened and fully operational. Then some magic happened. Disney caught wind of Operation Independence and a partnership was discussed. On January 13, the Disneyland Resort reopened its gates to welcome in guests of a different kind: county residents
