H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine at pharmacies
As of December 12, 2009, H1N1 flu vaccine is available for anyone 6 months and older who lives in King County through some pharmacies. Pharmacies have specific governing requirements about who they can vaccinate, so please check about requirements when you make an appointment. See list of participating pharmacies
.
Public Health is distributing vaccine to pharmacies to provide another option for people who cannot get vaccinated by a health care provider. The majority of vaccine in King County is distributed to hospitals and other health care providers.
The amount of H1N1 vaccine at pharmacies is limited, but will increase as the weeks go by and supplies become more plentiful. Please check this web page for updates.
Note for caregivers seeking H1N1 vaccine for babies and children: Many pharmacies are unable to vaccinate babies and young children because their staff is not licensed and/or trained for these age groups. Public Health is making every effort to get vaccine to healthcare providers caring for babies and young children. Health care providers who have ordered the vaccine will continue to get supplies as vaccine becomes available, Please check with your health care provider. Please see the list of participating pharmacies to find out who they can vaccinate.
| What you need to know before you go to a pharmacy |
Who is eligible for H1N1 vaccine currently
Starting Saturday, December 12, 2009, those eligible to receive H1N1 influenza vaccine will be expanded to everybody six months of age and older in King County. Depending on early demand among this broader group, supplies may be limited for a time at some locations. It is still important for those in the high-risk groups to get vaccinated.
What kind of vaccine you can get
Pregnant women, babies and children younger than 2 years, and people through 64 years of age with chronic health conditions will get the flu shot (injectable vaccine). Flu shots are prioritized for people in these groups because they are not allowed to receive the nasal-spray vaccine. They are also among those at highest risk for severe illness and hospitalization.
Healthy people between the ages of 2-49 who are not pregnant are encouraged to get the nasal-spray vaccine, to ensure that injectable vaccine (flu shots) are available for the people that need them the most. Thank you for your understanding.
Number of doses
People 10 years and older will need one dose of the vaccine. Children under 10 will need two pediatric doses, spaced at least 28 days apart.
Cost and health insurance
Pharmacies may charge a fee for administering the vaccine, typically between $12-$22 (not to exceed $22.) If you have health insurance, this fee will likely be covered. Please bring your health insurance information with you. You may need to submit a receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Links to information about H1N1 vaccine
See list of pharmacies with H1N1 vaccine
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