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A quarter of Oregonians have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and thousands more are getting their shots everyday. But as a new, more-contagious variant rips through the state, Oregon's case count surge continues, prompting Gov. Kate Brown to move 15 counties into the "extreme risk" category once again, effective this Friday. Those counties include both Multnomah and Clackamas, though Washington County has been spared and remains "high risk."

What this means for you: Indoor dining will be canceled, and capacities at gyms and entrainment venues will be lowered. Portland-area hospitals are monitoring their capacities, and may have to delay non-urgent procedures in order to preserve hospital beds for COVID-19 patients in critical condition.

In a press release sent Tuesday, Brown said she'll reconsider the counties' risk levels weekly, and that the new extreme risk classification for 15 counties isn't expected to last longer than three weeks. Brown added that she's working with the Oregon Legislature to provide $20 million in relief to businesses in the extreme risk counties who will see their profits affected by the harsher restrictions.

Brown encouraged Oregonians socializing to do so outdoors, noting that "we know that the risk of COVID-19 transmission is lower outdoors." She also urged everyone 16 and older to make a vaccination appointment if they have yet to do so.

"The fastest way to lift health and safety restrictions is for Oregonians to get vaccinated as quickly as possible and follow the safety measures we know stop this virus from spreading," Brown said. "There are appointments available right now all across the state.”

If you still need a COVID vaccine, here are some tips for booking your appointment.