Month: December 2020

Family Health Associates now has rapid COVID-19 tests at our Hermiston and Umatilla clinics for patients experiencing symptoms, including:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle, body, or headaches
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Dear Family Health Associates Patients,

As you have likely heard, last week the Food and Drug Administration approved emergency use of the first COVID-19 vaccine. In the near future, it is anticipated that they will approve use of several additional vaccines. At this time, the vaccine is approved for the use in patients 16 years of age and older. The state of Oregon received 30,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine this week, and expects to receive a total of 100,000 doses by the end of the month, with more coming in the future.

Because the initial supply is very limited, the Centers for Disease Control and the Oregon Health Authority are directing that first doses be given to certain, high risk individuals. Hopefully by spring widespread use of the vaccine will be available.

The providers at FHA encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated when the opportunity arises. We feel that the COVID-19 vaccine is a significant tool that can help save lives and end the pandemic. As a practice, we have petitioned the State of Oregon for the ability to offer the vaccine through both of our clinics and will keep you updated as it becomes more available.

We understand that there are a lot of questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, and respect that whether or not to be vaccinated is a personal and family decision. Please let us know if you have specific questions, or visit one of these sites for more information:

FDA COVID-19 vaccine information

CDC COVID-19 vaccine information

In the meantime, we ask that you continue to do your part to limit the impact of COVID-19 in our community by wearing a mask when appropriate, regularly washing your hands and by socially distancing.

Thank you for doing your part, and thank you for allowing us to care for you and your families. If you have any questions about the vaccine, need to arrange for COVID-19 testing or have other medical needs, please let us know. Our staff is happy to do what they can to help. We can be reached at (541) 567-6434.

We wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

– Family Health Associates Providers and Staff