Skip to main content
Most King County offices will be closed on Monday, for Memorial Day.  
King County logo
  1. Flu season resources
  2. For older adults and people with disabilities

Flu resources for older adults and people with disabilities

Why is it important to get a flu shot this year?

Flu is a serious health risk for older people.

The CDC estimates that 70 – 85% of flu-related deaths happen in people who are age 65 and older. Most people flu-related hospitalizations are in this age group. Diabetes, heart disease, asthma and other medical conditions also increase your risk with flu.

Getting a flu shot protects against serious illness and complications.

If someone who is vaccinated does get the flu, research shows that they will have a milder case and be much less likely to be hospitalized.

Getting a flu shot will make it easier for you and your primary care provider to decide how to treat any viral infection this winter.

There is a lot of overlap between flu symptoms and early COVID-19 symptoms. If you have any symptoms and you have had the flu vaccine, that will be useful information to help decide on the best course of testing and treatment for you.

This year, there are special high-dose versions of the flu shot that provide more protection for people 65 years and older.

People in this age group need high-dose versions because their immune systems do not produce as strong an immune response after getting the regular-dose vaccine.

Where can I get a flu shot?

You can get a flu shot from many pharmacies and clinics. Your local pharmacy may offer senior-only hours. Consider calling them to schedule your shot. Visit Public Health's Find a Clinic webpage for more resources.

Need help over the phone finding a flu shot?

Call Community Living Connections toll-free 1-844-348-5464 for help in finding a vaccine clinic near you. All calls are free and confidential. Interpretation is available. Callers can press 6 for assistance in Spanish or stay on the line to ask for interpretation in other languages. All calls are free and confidential.

Need transportation to get to a vaccination clinic or pharmacy?

Hyde Shuttle provides door-to-door van service throughout many communities in King County for adults, 55 and older, and persons with disabilities.

  • Call to see if service is available where you live and to request a ride. Call 206-727-6266, press 1 and stay on the line to ask for interpretation in other languages.
  • Or register online: https://hydeshuttle.org and select Request a Ride (online is in English only).

If you have a disability and cannot use a bus or light rail, you may want to sign up for Access Metro Transportation. Contact the Access Metro Transportation Call Center at 206-205-5000 or online for assistance. Currently, people with disabilities with immediate transportation needs do not need to be certified for Access service.