The states of Washington, Oregon, and Nevada have joined California’s COVID-19 Scientific Safety Review Workgroup, which will independently review the safety and efficacy of any vaccine approved by the FDA for distribution.
“California has led with science and data through the COVID pandemic, and when a vaccine becomes available, we will leverage our scientific expertise to verify its safety to give everyone the confidence they need to make important decisions regarding the health of their families,” California Gov. Gavin Newsom said. “This virus transcends our borders, and we are grateful to partner with our neighboring states through our Scientific Safety Review Workgroup for a healthy and safe path forward for all our communities.”
Earlier in October, Newsom appointed a panel made up of nationally acclaimed scientists with expertise in immunization and public health.
While there is currently no proven vaccine for COVID-19, these top health experts will review any vaccine that receives federal approval and verify its safety before California, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada make it available to the public.
“We believe in science, public health, and safety. That is why I am pleased that Washington is joining California and other western states in this effort,” Washington Gov. Jay Inslee said. “Any COVID vaccine must be guided by the expertise of scientists and medical professionals, and that’s just what this workgroup will do. The Western States Pact will continue working together to ensure the best health outcomes for everyone in our states.”
This past April, California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, and Nevada joined in a Western States Pact to form a shared vision for fighting COVID-19 and reopening their economies.
“The vaccines currently in development, once approved, are what Americans have been waiting for to protect their families, their children, and their loved ones in long-term care facilities,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said. “The independent review conducted by this panel of doctors, scientists, and health experts will ensure that a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine is available to everyone, especially communities that have been disproportionately impacted by this disease.”