KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Flu season has not struck yet in King County, so it is an excellent time to vaccinate and protect against the flu. Each year, influenza is a major but preventable cause of illness, visits to health care providers, hospitalizations and deaths.
“As the deaths in children from flu last winter showed us, influenza can have a devastating impact on our communities,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. “Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your family from influenza.”
Flu vaccine supply is plentiful in King County, and the vaccine is available to anyone who wants it. Flu shots are available at doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, Public Health centers and other providers. The nasal spray flu vaccine is also a very good option for healthy people between 2 and 49 years of age. To find a flu shot clinic, visit: www.flucliniclocator.org
Getting vaccinated is especially important for people at higher risk for serious flu complications, such as older people, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions. Flu vaccine is also important for household members and close contacts of high-risk people and for healthcare workers.
Flu activity in King County usually does not peak until around February. Getting vaccinated now provides the most protection, but continues to be valuable into the winter through January or later.
Local and national campaigns
Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared this week National Influenza Immunization Week. Locally, Public Health is partnering with the Faces of Influenza campaign, lead by the American Lung Association, to promote local flu vaccination.
Local partners of the Faces of Influenza campaign include the American Lung Association of Washington, Virginia Mason Medical Center, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the University of Washington and Public Health - Seattle & King County, among others.
Stop germs
Another excellent way to prevent illness this cold and flu season is to practice good health manners, such as covering coughs and washing hands, avoiding close contact with ill people, and staying home from work and school when ill. Stop Germs web pages: www.metrokc.gov/health/stopgerms.
