I'm very pleased to announce the County of Orange is opening its second regional COVID-19 Vaccine Super Point of Dispensing (POD) site in South County at Soka University in Aliso Viejo on Saturday, January 23, starting at 8:00 AM.

Orange County is moving quickly to make the COVID-19 vaccination available; however, the County faces ongoing supply limitations. The Orange County Health Care Agency is continuously requesting more doses from the State every day.

Named Operation Independence, the County is setting up regional vaccine Points of Dispensing (POD) sites. Due to the scope and size of these PODs, based on the high demand for vaccine, these sites are being referred to as County Super PODs. Since the Disneyland Resort Super POD site opened January 13, there have been approximately 21,782 vaccines distributed to eligible Orange County residents and those working in Orange County.

Other new Super POD sites will open as the supply of COVID-19 vaccines available in the County increases. The County anticipates the need for at least five Super PODs located throughout the County. Additional Super POD sites will open in a phased approach, ensuring access to all Orange County residents.

I am very pleased that we were able to partner with Soka University, located in the City of Aliso Viejo, to establish our second Super POD site in the Fifth District. My district has a large number of seniors eligible to receive the vaccine under Phase 1A, and having a location in South County will prove extremely helpful in providing greater and more convenient access to the vaccine. I strongly encourage all residents to click here for the latest information on who is currently eligible to receive the vaccination, and learn the facts about the vaccines’ safety and efficacy.

Vaccines dispensed at County Super PODs are currently available for individuals who live and work in Orange County and fall within the State’s Phase 1A, all tiers, including persons age 65 and older. Appointments are available through Othena.com based on vaccine availability. Eligible individuals with an appointment must present identification and proof of eligibility at the Super POD site to receive a vaccine. To view a list of those who are eligible to receive a vaccine, please visit the OC Health Care Agency’s website. 

The Operation Independence Incident Management Team (IMT) was established December 31, 2020. The IMT is a unified command with representatives from the Orange County Health Care Agency, Orange County Fire Authority and other fire service agencies in Orange County, Orange County’s Sheriff’s Department and other law enforcement agencies, the County of Orange County Executive Office and other County agencies.

Soka University has trained as a County Point of Distribution (POD) site since 2007, so as we mark our 20th Anniversary in 2021, how appropriate that we can start this year in solidarity with the County to support our front line workers, first responders and community members in this important endeavor,” said Archibald E. Asawa, VP, Finance & Administration, Soka University of America.

Othena platform specialists are responding to callers at the HCA Hotline to assist with questions related to the app, and vaccine appointments. Call 714-834-2000, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM., or email Othena. 

For questions related to COVID-19, click here or follow the HCA on Facebook and Twitter.