Dear Patients,
Earlier this week, we shared that the California Public Health Department (CPHD) out of an abundance of caution paused the administration of a single lot of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine delivered throughout California. This was due to a higher-than-usual number of possible allergic reactions at one of the 287 sites that received it. We had received 500 doses from this particular lot, but had not yet administered any of it. Today, after a thorough investigation, the CPHD found no scientific basis to continue the pause on this particular lot, and cleared a restart of its use. You can read their announcement HERE.
While this pause on vaccine distribution was not convenient, it shows that the rigorous system of safeguards is working, and continues to be focused on getting vaccine into arms as quickly as possible.
Based on this news, after a week’s delay, we will begin distribution of COVID-19 vaccines for our patients ages 75 and over next week. If you have a MyChart account, you will receive an email when you are eligible to schedule an appointment, which is the most expedient process for scheduling a vaccine with us. Patients not on MyChart will be receiving a letter with instructions for scheduling a vaccine appointment.
Because there is still a limited overall vaccine distribution from the California Department of Public Health, the vaccine supply remains low in Santa Barbara County. If you can get vaccinated through our partners at the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department or the local hospitals, we encourage you to do that.
We greatly appreciate your patience as we work through this constantly evolving situation. We are doing our best to serve our patients in the most efficient and effective way possible.
Sincerely,
Kurt N. Ransohoff, MD, FACP
CEO and Chief Medical Officer
Sansum Clinic