OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Top state health officials are making their own decisions in an effort to keep viral diseases from spreading.

The state Department of Health has issued a Standing Order that recommends anyone six months and older to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Earlier this week, the governors of Washington, Oregon and California announced a joint health alliance to keep their residents safe from preventable disease.

Hawaii made the decision to join the group on Thursday, Sept. 4.

The creation of the alliance follows new guidance from the FDA last month, which limited COVID vaccine recommendations to people age 65 and older or anyone with a qualifying condition.

My Bellingham Now previously reported that the multi-state alliance is instead making recommendations based on other nationally accredited medical organizations.

Washington’s Department of Health adds that appointments for COVID vaccines will remain available to any resident who wants them.

However, they warn that vaccine supplies could be limited for certain programs in the coming months.