Spread Cheer Not the Flu This Holiday Season

Just in time for the holidays, flu season has arrived, according to the county health department. But there is still time to get immunized against the illness.

"No one wants to spend the holidays sick with flu," said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. "Even people who were vaccinated last season should be vaccinated again to boost their protection."

 Health experts recommend that everyone six months of age and older get the flu vaccine, especially children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with health problems like diabetes and heart disease.

As always, healthy habits can limit the spread of contagious illnesses, including the flu. Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often, avoid close contact with ill people, and stay home from work, school, and other public settings when ill.

To underscore the importance of the flu vaccine, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the week of Dec. 4-10 is National Influenza Vaccination Week to promote flu vaccine for those who have not yet been immunized.

For complete information about seasonal influenza, including where to get a flu vaccine, please visit www.kingcounty.gov/health/flu.

In addition to your own doctor, there are many places in town to get a flu shot. Here is a list of places in Woodinville with flu clinics:

Target