Disneyland to Become Massive COVID-19 Vaccination Site

The Walt Disney Company has struggled to figure out what to do about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its parks, but as the United States launches an aggressive vaccination campaign, the company will volunteer the park as Orange County's first massive COVID-19 vaccination super-site. Officially referred to as a POD (point-of-dispensing) site, the hope is that

"The Disneyland Resort, the largest employer in the heart of Orange County, has stepped up to host the county's first Super POD site – undertaking a monumental task in our vaccination distribution process," county chairman Andrew Do said in a statement. "We truly appreciate the support of the Orange County Fire Authority, our cities, and our residents as we continue to rollout COVID-19 vaccinations throughout the county."

Super PODs will have the capacity to vaccinate thousands of residents each day. The Super PODs will increase efficiency and provide multiple vaccine distribution points throughout Orange County. The County will announce additional Super POD sites as agreements are finalized.

"I'm proud to have Disneyland Resorts and the City of Anaheim, both in my Fourth District, be the first
of the Super POD sites in Orange County," said Supervisor Doug Chaffee. "Residents in my district have
been highly impacted by COVID-19. These Super PODs are absolutely critical in stopping this deadly
virus."

Vaccine distribution is managed through a phased, tiered approach established by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). Currently, vaccinations are available to Orange County residents and those who work in Orange County who meet the criteria for what is referred to as "Phase 1a, all tiers."

The Phase 1a group includes law enforcement first responders in high-risk communities and was recently expanded to include those age 75 and older. We are excited to serve this group as a priority population. According to a statement from Disneyland, the County is working in collaboration with community partners to create a process that reaches seniors close to home and best serves these individuals.

Only those identified under Phase 1a who have an appointment will receive a vaccination at the County's new Super POD locations. Individuals with appointments must provide identification and documentation of vaccine eligibility at the site. Walk-ups without an appointment cannot be accommodated. Given the limited initial supply of the COVID-19 vaccine, distribution will be limited at first and increased over time. The phased, tiered approach to vaccine distribution aims to reach critical populations to reduce morbidity and mortality rates due to the transmission of COVID-19.

"Coronavirus has brought both a public health crisis and economic devastation," said Anaheim Mayor Harry Sidhu. "With this super site, we will begin to overcome both. Every vaccination done in Anaheim will help to save lives and speed the reopening and recovery of our city."