Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, First Lady, receive COVID-19 vaccine

OLYMPIA, Wash.-- Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and his wife, First Lady Trudi Inslee, each received their first doses of the Moderna version of the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday.

The governor and Mrs. Inslee are both 69 years old, making them eligible for the vaccine along with any other state residents over the age of 65. 

"It’s a scientific miracle that we have this safe, comfortable, efficacious vaccine so quickly," the governor said after being vaccinated. "These things normally take years to develop. And to have this, that we know is safe, that we know works, that can not only help yourself but your family and everybody around you, it’s just incredible."

The available COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna each require two doses several weeks apart to be most effective for those receiving it. Both doses must be from the same brand, so anyone who receives an initial dose of the Pfizer vaccine, must receive a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

The governor and Mrs. Inslee expect to have their second doses in the coming weeks.

Those who receive the vaccine are still encouraged to wear masks, stay socially distant and wash their hands regularly. For information on who is eligible to get vaccinated right now and where to find locations offering the COVID-19 vaccine, visit the state Department of Health website.