SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. – The Snohomish Health District will lift all restrictions on administering H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine in Snohomish County as of Thursday, Dec. 10.
 
The announcement follows discussions between local public health officials and the Washington State Department of Health. The small shipments of vaccine that arrived in Snohomish County beginning in October had been available only to emergency health-care workers and those at high risk of complications from H1N1 infection.
 
“This is happy news for everyone in Snohomish County,” said Dr. Gary Goldbaum, Health Officer and Director of the Snohomish Health District. “The supply of vaccine has stabilized in recent weeks, and our multiple approaches to administering it clearly have worked to vaccinate first the people who needed it the most.
“My sincerest thanks go to the people who have waited patiently for their turn to get vaccine, and to the health-care providers who participated in planning and delivering vaccine to thousands of people in a very short time.”
H1N1 vaccine is available at many pharmacies, clinics and private provider offices. A list of vaccine providers in Snohomish County is posted at www.snocoflu.com and www.snohd.org.

The vaccine is free from the federal government, but private providers and pharmacies may charge an administration fee per dose of vaccine.

The Snohomish Health District also offers H1N1 vaccine by appointment at its two locations. Its appointment call center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is closed on weekends and official holidays (Dec. 25, Jan. 1).

Call 425.339.5220 for a Tuesday or Thursday appointment at the Everett site, 3020 Rucker Ave., Suite 108.
Call 425.775.3522 for a Monday or Wednesday appointment at the Lynnwood site, 6101 – 200th St. SW, Suite 100.
 
Find more information about local public health and H1N1 at www.snohd.org and www.snocoflu.com.