The report published by Cowlitz County Health & Human Services in Washington state found that among those fully vaccinated in southwest Washington ages 65 and older, the risk of hospitalization was reduced by 90%. In those partially vaccinated within that age range, the risk was reduced by 75%.
“This report demonstrates how effective COVID-19 vaccines are at preventing severe illness that can lead to hospitalization,” said Dr. Steven Krager, deputy health officer for Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis, Pacific, Skamania and Wahkiakum counties.
“Completing the vaccination series provides the most protection, but even those who are not yet fully vaccinated receive some protection from the vaccine.”
The report also took a look at the vaccination status of residents ages 45 to 65 and found that 91% of hospitalized residents were unvaccinated.
“The COVID-19 vaccines are very effective, but they’re not perfect. A small number of people who are fully vaccinated may still get COVID-19,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, health officer for Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis, Pacific, Skamania and Wahkiakum counties.
“But this data show that those who are vaccinated are far less likely to be hospitalized as a result of their illness. Getting vaccinated provides the best protection.”