Earlier this week Sonoma County reaffirmed its commitment to vaccinate the oldest seniors first, those 75 and older. Younger seniors were told to be patient, along with essential workers whose communities have been gravely affected by COVID-19.
The county says 65% of people who’ve tested positive for the virus identify as Latinx. And while essential workers were top of mind at the beginning of the county’s vaccine rollout, California’s move to vaccinate seniors first has delayed many of those who have to go into work everyday from getting their vaccines. While Sonoma’s still vaccinating people 75 and older, the County is partnering with grassroots organizations for the next phase of distribution, to prioritize low income, communities of color who have been hit hardest by the pandemic. KRCB’s Tessa Paoli has more.