EVERETT — Flu season is coming. Medical providers and pharmacies around Snohomish County are already offering a vaccine to protect against three kinds of influenza virus that make people sick.
The Snohomish Health District says that washing hands and covering coughs are effective ways to stop the spread of disease. But the best way to prevent getting the flu is getting vaccinated.
While everyone is encouraged to get the vaccine, it is especially recommended for people who are:
•Between 6 months old and 19;
•50 years and older;
•Pregnant;
•Live in long-term care facilities;
•Live with or care for those at high risk for complications from the flu;
•Work in health care;
•Provide care or in contact with children younger than 6 months who are too young to receive the vaccine.
The Vaccine For Children program has vaccine for children age 6 months through age 18 years. FluMist nasal spray is available for children age 2 years through 18 who are healthy and not pregnant.
People can also get the vaccine at doctor’s offices and pharmacies and other locations listed at www.getaflushot.com and www.flu.gov/individualfamily/vaccination/locator.html.
The cost for an adult flu shot at the Snohomish Health District is $30. A flu shot for a child costs $15. People may apply for a reduced fee, based on income and household size.
There is a flu shot that is licensed for people age 65 years and older, which contains four times the active ingredients than the regular flu shot. This “super shot” is available in the community, but is not offered at Snohomish Health District.
Where to get a flu vaccination
People can get flu vaccinations at Snohomish Health District clinics:
•SHD Everett Immunization Clinic, 3020 Rucker Ave, Suite 108, Everett. Call 425-339-5220 for an appointment. Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
SHD Lynnwood Immunization Clinic, 6101 200th Ave SW, Lynnwood. Call 425-775-3522 for an appointment. Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The Health District will be closed Nov. 12 for Veterans Day; Nov. 22 and 23 for the Thanksgiving holiday; Dec. 25 for Christmas; and Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day.
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