COVID-19
COVID-19
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COVID-19 is the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus, which was discovered in 2019. Coronaviruses as a group have been known to science since the late 1930’s and are recognized to cause 15-30% of all winter “common colds”. SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is much more serious than the common cold because it is a new strain for which most people have no immune defense.
COVID-19 infections cause a range of illness from mild, which can be treated at home, to severe enough that hospitalization is required. In most people symptoms are similar to the flu or common cold, however some people can have severe symptoms requiring hospitalization or even resulting in death. Individuals 65 years or older and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk from COVID-19.
If you are at higher risk, the Benton County Health Department recommends speaking to your medical provider about creating a COVID plan, which should cover your personal risk, prevention strategies, and treatment options in case you do get sick.
COVID-19 Vaccination
The COVID-19 vaccine offers excellent protection from severe illness and hospitalization. Vaccine protection decreases over time, so it is important to stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines are updated to give you the best protection from the currently circulating strains. You can find information about the latest COVID-19 vaccine at vaccines.gov.
2025-2026 COVID-19 Vaccine
We understand there is confusion about how to get a 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine. We will continue to provide updates as they are available.
Benton County Health Services (BCHS) currently has no COVID-19 vaccines in stock through our primary care providers or in our public health immunization program. The BCHS/OSU Pharmacy does not provide immunizations. We will update you as soon as vaccines are available.
- Your regular medical provider.
- Supporting medical providers, like SamCare Express.
- Local pharmacies, including pharmacy counters inside of grocery stores.
- Find a vaccine near you at vaccines.gov
Please consider getting your COVID-19 vaccine from a retail pharmacy (for example: CVS, Fred Meyer, Pillbox, Rice’s, Safeway, Walgreens, Walmart, etc.). Pharmacies can vaccinate people seven years of age or older. Please contact the pharmacy ahead of time to confirm vaccine availability.
If you have questions, please contact our Health Department by phone at 541-766-6835.
For more information, visit:
- West Coast Health Alliance Frequently Asked Questions
- Oregon Health Authority vaccines webpage
COVID-19 Testing
At-home testing kits are available over-the-counter at many pharmacies and retail locations. Laboratory testing is available through medical providers.
