After the recent deaths of two grade-school children from flu-related complications, Public Health of Seattle and King County is urging families to take preventative steps to stop the spread of germs by frequently washing your hands, staying home from school and work when you are sick, covering coughs and sneezes with your sleeve, and avoiding close contact with ill people.

 

Flu vaccinations are the best way to prevent the flu, and-in response to recent flu cases and the public's concern-Public Health is holding FREE flu vaccination clinics today and tomorrow.

*         Today, Sunday, February 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Auburn Public Health Center, 20 Auburn Ave. S.E., Auburn

·         Today, Sunday, February 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at North Public Health Center, 10501 Meridian Ave. N., Seattle

·         Tomorrow, Monday, February 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Eastgate Public Health Center, 14350 S.E. Eastgate Way, Bellevue

Public Health continues to recommend influenza vaccine for all children 2 months to 5 years old, and other high risk groups, their household members and close contacts, and anyone else who wishes to reduce their risk of getting influenza. However, people receiving a flu vaccine should be aware that it takes one to two weeks for the flu vaccine to be fully effective. Flu vaccination will be available at all Public Health clinics when normal hours resume on Tuesday. Vaccine is also widely available at clinics, drug stores, and some retailers.

Locally, Public Health officials report school absenteeism and hospital emergency department visits have passed levels observed in recent flu seasons. However, the number of severe cases and deaths has been similar or lower than levels seen in previous years. At a national level, the Centers for Disease Control has characterized influenza activity as mild to moderate and not as severe as previous seasons.

 

Our Issaquah schools have experienced rates of absenteeism that are higher than average but about typical for this time of year.

For more information visit www.metrokc.gov/health/immunization/fluseason.htm