KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - While influenza is beginning to make its seasonal appearance, the height of the flu season is not expected for several more weeks. Public Health officials are alerting residents that now is the time to get vaccinated against the seasonal flu.
“You can still beat the flu if you get a vaccine now,” said Dorothy Teeter, Interim Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. “Get the vaccine and feel better knowing you’ve reduced your risk of getting sick and infecting your children, elders or other vulnerable members of our community.”
Flu vaccine supply is plentiful in King County, and is available to anyone who wants it. Public Health is currently offering shots for $15 at its Public Health Centers. To find out how to make an appointment and the location of the nearest center, call 206-296-4949. You may also check online at www.metrokc.gov/health/immunization/fluseason.htm
Flu vaccine protects people by reducing the risk of getting the flu and reducing its severity, and flu shots also protect those who cannot get immunized, such as infants, by reducing influenza among their contacts.
Protection from the flu is particularly important for people who are at high risk for complications from the flu, including:
- Children aged six months until their 5th birthday
- Pregnant women
- People 50 years of age and older
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease (including asthma), kidney disease or diabetes
- People who live in nursing homes and other long term care facilities
Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.
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