Even though it is only mid-October, health officials say they’re already seeing a rise in flu cases. Some doctors are worried that this season could be particularly tough for younger kids who may be facing ‘normal’ exposure levels for the first time, with schools back to in-person learning, and most dropping precautions like masking and social distancing.
The CDC says more than a thousand people have been hospitalized with the flu in the past week, and they’re recommending that everyone older than 6 months get vaccinated.
Fortunately, local health agencies are making it easy!
On Saturday, October 15, Good Shepherd Health Care System will be holding a free, drive-through flu shot clinic in Hermiston from 8:00AM to 1:00PM. The Yakima Health District will also be offering vaccines during Family Fun Night at Miller Park, from 3:00 to 6:00 Saturday evening.
The Benton Franklin Health District (BFHD) is holding vaccine clinics from Monday, October 17 to Friday, October 21. The clinics will be open 8:00-12:00 and 1:00-4:30. You need to call first to make an appointment and make sure that BFHD accepts your health insurance. The number to do that is (509) 460-4200.
Kennewick School District will also be holding flu shot clinics throughout the next few weeks. The next ones will be coming up Tuesday, October 18th, at Canyon View Elementary and Sage Crest Elementary. You can click here for more information about upcoming clinics. The shots are typically covered by insurance; but if you don’t have coverage, you can still get the vaccine! The school district is offering the shots at a discounted rate: $28 per person for the standard dose.
On Friday, October 21st the Kittitas County Public Health Department (KCPHD) and Kittitas Valley Healthcare are partnering for a drive-through vaccine clinic at Western Village.
If you have any questions about the drive-thru flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinic, call the Kittitas County Public Health Department at (509) 962-7515.
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