Through our partnership with King County, we are bringing you real-time, relevant information on what is happening regarding vaccines and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Omicron Variant
Last week, the first cases of the Omicron variant were detected in three Washington State counties – King, Pierce and Thurston.
While this is the first reported case in King County, it is likely not the only case. Public Health – Seattle & King County expects to see more cases confirmed in the region in the coming days and weeks and will continue to provide updated information about the new variant and trends.
Health officials worldwide are urgently studying the Omicron variant. There isn’t enough information yet about how easily it spreads, how sick it can make people, or how responsive it is to the approved vaccines. We know it will be a few weeks before are able to provide more reliable information on how Omicron will affect all of us.
The key message right now is to keep using the tools we already have available so that we continue the recent downward trend in infections and hospitalizations. This includes vaccination, booster doses when eligible, wearing high-quality and well-fitted face masks or respirators, avoiding crowded indoor spaces, physically distancing and getting tested and staying home when symptoms are detected. Vaccine verification for indoor activities and large outdoor activities provides additional protection in the effort to keep our community safe.
You can stay up to date on the latest information regarding the Omicron variant, vaccines and more via Public Health – Seattle & King County’s FAQ webpage.
Vaccine Booster Shots
The COVID-19 vaccines continue to protect people from severe illness and death from the virus. But with the Delta and Omicron variants, those who are eligible should now get an additional booster shot for the most protection.
Booster shots increase the strength and duration of the vaccine’s protection and are especially important for adults over age 50 and people with medical conditions. Anyone 18 years and older is eligible and can receive their booster six months after the second dose of Moderna or Pfizer vaccines and two months after the initial dose of the J&J vaccine. As of Dec. 9, U.S. health authorities said 16- and 17-year-olds should get a booster dose of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine once they’re six months past their last shot.
In King County there are a number of free resources to help individuals get a COVID-19 booster shot. Those seeking a booster can call their doctor’s office, pharmacy, or health care provider, use Washington State’s Vaccine Locator or visit a King County Vaccination site.
Due to high demand, most King County vaccination sites are temporarily no longer able to accommodate drop-in vaccinations and appointments are now required. You can register and schedule appointments via the ‘Getting Vaccinated in King County’ web page.
Public Health – Seattle & King County anticipate that booster appointment capacity and demand will even out in the next three to five weeks.