Get That Flu Shot Yet Yakima? The Flu Has Arrived!

Get that flu shot yet?
Officials at the Yakima Health District say getting the flu vaccine this winter is crucial to help reduce the spread of influenza and symptoms. Influenza and the common cold have similar symptoms to COVID-19, the only unique symptoms that COVID-19 has are loss of taste and smell.

State officials say three people have died of the flu so far this year

Washington State Health Department officials say three people have died of the flu so far this year. They say flu activity is moderate in Washington State. They say those who died were all were age 65 or older and tested positive for influenza A. The last time the state saw deaths from the flu was in the 2019-2020 flu season when 114 died of influenza. Last year no deaths were reported possibly because of the precautions taken during the pandemic.

You could have both COVID and the flu

Health officials say it's possible that you could be infected with influenza and COVID-19 at the same time, which is why the Yakima Health District urges you to get vaccinated, both against the flu and COVID-19.
Everyone six months of age and older should get an annual flu vaccine. Health officials say young children, pregnant women, those with underlying health conditions, and people aged 65 and older are at high risk for flu-related complications. Flu shots are available throughout the community.