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Take everyday steps to prevent getting and spreading flu viruses. Flu vaccines help protect against severe illness from flu.
Influenza (flu) activity has surged in Kitsap County since late December and remains very high statewide and nationally.
In Kitsap, tests for flu and flu-related emergency department visits are higher now than at any point in the 2023-2024 flu season. In the first week of February, 82 flu-related emergency department visits were reported at Kitsap hospitals. Two flu-related deaths among county residents have been reported since last October.
In addition to flu, whooping cough (pertussis), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 are spreading in Kitsap this season.
Preventing flu and other seasonal illnesses
You can take simple steps to stay healthy and protect people who are at higher risk from flu and other seasonal illnesses:
Make sure you and your family are up to date on flu shots and other routine vaccines.
Stay home from work or school when you are sick
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Wash your hands frequently
Cover coughs and sneezes
Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces
It's not too late to get your flu shot
A seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older to prevent flu and protect against severe illness from flu. Flu vaccines are widely available at local doctor's offices, clinics, and pharmacies.
Vaccines are free in Washington for children 18 and younger. Assistance is available for adults who do not have insurance or whose insurance does not cover vaccines.
Upcoming clinics for children
Kitsap Public Health is hosting free vaccination clinics for children in February and March. Our clinics offer flu and COVID-19 vaccines, as well as all routine childhood immunizations. Visit our clinic page to view full details and book an appointment.
For more information, call 360-728-2007 or email immunizations@kitsappublichealth.org.
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