Flu Basics
Influenza viruses cause flu. The viruses spread from person to person when infected people cough, sneeze or touch objects. Flu can be mild or severe, and can even cause death. Older people, children under 5 and people with certain health conditions are at a higher risk for serious complications from the flu.
Flu season usually begins in December and lasts until April in the United States. Flu vaccinations are usually available starting in late September or early October, and it’s best to get the vaccine as soon as it’s available.
We work closely with Public Health – Seattle and King County, the Washington State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to keep you informed during flu season.
More on Flu Symptoms and Prevention
NEW: Public Health – Seattle and King County is offering free flu vaccination clinics for all people over 6 months of age without health insurance or who are otherwise unable to pay for vaccination.
Reminder: Visitors who are sick or have been exposed to an illness should not come to the hospital.
Information updated: January 18, 2013