After the Kitsap Peninsula and its neighboring communities saw an uptick in COVID-19 hospitalizations this summer, public health officials are encouraging everyone receive an updated immunization this fall.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone 6 months or older get a 2024-2025 COVID vaccine. The Food and Drug Administration approved the new Pfizer and Modern mRNA vaccines in late August. Immunization puts people infected with coronavirus at a lower risk of serious illness, hospitalization or death.
Shots are covered at no cost by most insurance plans. They are free for state residents 18 or younger through the Childhood Vaccine Program. The Washington State Adult Vaccine Program is also available for those without insurance.
Doses should be available at pharmacies or primary care facilities. Providers can be found at vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov . Kitsap Community Resources is hosting a back-to-school vaccination clinic on Oct. 17 from 2-6 p.m. at 845 8th Street in Bremerton.