H1N1 vaccine available to the general public

The Snohomish Health District lifted all restrictions on administering H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine in Snohomish County on Thursday.

The announcement followed discussions between local public health officials and the state Department of Health. The small shipments of vaccine that arrived in Snohomish County beginning in October had been available only to emergency health-care workers and those at high risk of complications from H1N1 infection.

“This is happy news for everyone in Snohomish County,” said Dr. Gary Goldbaum, director of the Snohomish Health District.

“The supply of vaccine has stabilized in recent weeks, and our multiple approaches to administering it clearly have worked to vaccinate first the people who needed it the most.

“My sincerest thanks go to the people who have waited patiently for their turn to get the vaccine, and to the health-care providers who participated in planning and delivering vaccine to thousands of people in a very short time.”

H1N1 vaccine is available at many pharmacies, clinics and private provider offices. A list of vaccine providers in Snohomish County is posted at www. snocoflu.com and www. snohd.org .

The vaccine is free from the federal government, but private providers and pharmacies may charge an administration fee per dose of vaccine.

The Snohomish Health District also offers H1N1 vaccine by appointment at its two locations. Its appointment call center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is closed on weekends and official holidays (Dec. 25, Jan. 1). Call 425-339-5220 for a Tuesday or Thursday appointment at the Everett site, 3020 Rucker Ave., Suite 108. Call 425- 775-3522 for a Monday or Wednesday appointment at the Lynnwood site, 6101 200th St. SW, Suite 100.