Time For That Flu Shot

It's that time of year that doctors are urging everyone to get the shot.
While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our daily lives, fall brings the flu. The presence of both viruses could put more people in the hospital and strain Washington’s health care system. A vaccine for COVID-19 is in the works but flu shots are widely available.

The Washington State Department of Health, Safeway and Albertsons are teaming up to provide flu vaccines to uninsured adults over 18 this flu season.
Three Safeway stores in Yakima on Mead, and Lincoln Avenues and on North 5th Avenue plus the Safeway store in Toppenish are among those offering free flu shots.

They say everyone 6 months and older needs a flu vaccine. 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.

Washington provides all recommended vaccines at no cost for kids from birth through age 18, available across the state.