State health experts recommend that everyone 6 months and older needs a flu vaccine this fall. <\/p>\n
The presence of COVID-19 and flu viruses could put more people in the hospital and strain Washington’s health care system, according to a news release Sept. 29 from the state Department of Health. While there is not yet a vaccine to prevent COVID-19, there is one to prevent flu.<\/p>\n
Young children, pregnant women, people with underlying health conditions, and those aged 65 and older are at high risk of complications from flu illness. Flu is a highly contagious disease that can cause mild to severe illness, can lead to hospitalization, and can even be fatal – even in healthy young people. Getting a flu shot reduces your chances of getting the flu, but does not prevent other respiratory infections.<\/p>\n
“Think of it as essential to get a flu vaccine this year,” said Dr. Kathy Lofy, Washington state health officer, in the news release. “We should all get a flu vaccine now to help protect ourselves and our communities as we navigate this pandemic together.”<\/p>\n
Washington provides all recommended vaccines at no cost for kids from birth through age 18, available across the state.<\/p>\n
“Flu vaccine is available everywhere, and many pharmacies now allow younger patients to get vaccinated with their families,” Lofy said. “Our health care workers need everyone’s support – the decision to get a flu vaccine is more important than ever.”<\/p>\n