It is not too late to get your flu vaccine, if you have not gotten one already. Flu activity is currently low in King County, which means there is still time to protect yourself and your family from the flu. Flu season usually peaks in February or later and can last as late as May.

“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.

Special flu shot opportunity for people who can’t afford to pay

Walgreens and Public Health — Seattle & King County are partnering to offer flu vaccinations at no charge on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Walgreens located at 17524 Aurora Ave. North in Shoreline. Vaccines will be offered at no charge for adults and children age seven and older who are uninsured and cannot afford to pay. No appointments are needed.

Flu shots are widely available at doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, Public Health centers and other providers. To find a flu shot clinic, visit www.flucliniclocator.org.

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.

How else can I protect myself from the flu?

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.

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