Wine Country Times

Sonoma residents above the age of 70 are now able to receive COVID vaccines, according to county officials. 

County-supported clinics and Safeway pharmacies will begin distributing the doses to people in the 70-and-above age bracket. However, the OptumServe site in Rohnert Park will still prioritize those who are 75 years and older. 

“We started with our most vulnerable seniors 75 and older for a reason – because they are our most vulnerable. We needed to give them a head start so they wouldn't lose out on getting vaccine appointments," Sonoma County Board of Supervisors Chair Lynda Hopkins said.

Older demographics are at a higher risk for serious symptoms and complications due to COVID-19, which is why officials across the nation are placing them at the front of the line for the vaccinations. Hopkins also clarified that the Rohnert Park location will soon expand priority to 70 years of age.

“While we will continue to reserve some of our appointments and the OptumServe site for those in this age group, we are ready to open up appointments to seniors 70 and above," Hopkins said. 

Individuals eligible for the vaccine can set up an appointment through their primary care provider, or through a local vaccination center, provided they meet the criteria for age bracket or employment as an essential worker.  

“Opening clinics to those ages 70 and above will enable the county to manage the demand for appointments while continuing to make slots available for those who are most vulnerable and most in need of assistance in booking an appointment," Director of Dept. Of Health Services Barbie Robinson said.

Within Sonoma County, the Rohnert Park Community Center is the only location limited to those 75 and older. Sonoma County Fairgrounds, Oakmont Berger Center, Sonoma Valley High School and 11 Safeway pharmacies in the county will provide appointments for those age 70 and above. For more information about vaccine locations and appointments, click here.