Flu Free Washington

Flu (Influenza)

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and can sometimes lead to hospitalization or death.

Anyone can get the flu, but some people are more likely to become seriously ill, including young children, adults 65 and older, pregnant people, and people with certain health conditions.

Learn more on our Flu Facts and Flu and the Vaccine page.

Protect yourself and others from flu

The best way to protect yourself from flu is to get a flu vaccine every year. You can also help prevent the spread of flu by staying home when you are sick, washing your hands, and covering coughs and sneezes.

Get a flu vaccine

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every year, including pregnant and breast and chest feeding people.

Get your flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible.
Getting vaccinated later can still help protect you during flu season.
It takes about 2 weeks for your body to build protection after vaccination.
You can get a flu vaccine at the same visit as other vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines.
Adults 65 and older should talk with their health care provider about which flu vaccine is right for them.

Where to get a flu vaccine

Your doctor or health care provider’s office.
A pharmacy — many pharmacies offer flu vaccines.
Your local health department — some offer flu vaccines or can help you find one.
Community vaccination clinics — vaccines may be offered at schools, workplaces, community centers, and other locations.
Use VaccineFinder.org to find a vaccine provider near you.
Call the Help Me Grow Washington hotline at 1-800-322-2588 (language assistance available) to find a flu vaccine location near you.

Tip: Call ahead to make sure the location has the flu vaccine you need and accepts your insurance. DOH also recommends checking with your health plan about where you can get vaccinated and what costs may apply.

Why get a flu vaccine?

Flu vaccination can:

Lower your chance of getting the flu.
Reduce how sick you become if you get the flu.
Lower your risk of hospitalization and other serious complications, including death.
Help protect people around you who may be at higher risk of serious illness.

The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. It does not protect against COVID-19, RSV, colds, or other viruses that can cause respiratory illness.

Flu in Washington

DOH tracks flu activity in Washington throughout the year. During flu season, DOH shares weekly flu reports to help people understand how much flu is spreading in the state.

View the latest Washington flu activity (PDF).

What to do if you get the flu

If you have flu symptoms, stay home and avoid close contact with others. Most people with flu can recover at home.

Common flu symptoms include:

Fever or chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headache
Feeling very tired

Some people may have vomiting or diarrhea, especially children.

Antiviral medicine may help

Prescription antiviral medicines can help people with flu, especially when treatment starts early. Talk with your health care provider if you are sick with flu or are at higher risk for serious illness.

Learn what to do if you get the flu.

When to get emergency care

Call 911 for a life-threatening emergency.

Get emergency medical care if you or your child has:

Trouble breathing
Chest pain or pressure
Severe confusion or difficulty waking up
Blue, gray, or pale lips or face
Signs of severe dehydration
Symptoms that improve but then become much worse

For babies and young children, seek medical care for signs of serious illness, including trouble breathing, unusual sleepiness, or not drinking enough fluids.

Learn more about emergency warning signs.

Help stop the spread of flu

Small actions can help protect you, your family, and your community.

Stay home when you are sick. Avoid close contact with others until you are feeling better.

Cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or your elbow. Throw tissues away after use.

Wash your hands. Wash often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer.

Consider wearing a mask. A mask can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, especially in crowded or indoor spaces.

Clean frequently touched surfaces. Regular cleaning can help reduce the spread of viruses.

Flu vaccines for children

Children 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year. Children under age 19 can get recommended vaccines at no cost through the Vaccines for Children program. Providers may charge an administration fee, but you can ask about having the fee waived if you cannot afford it.

Flu during pregnancy

Pregnant people are at higher risk for serious flu illness. Getting a flu vaccine during pregnancy can help protect the pregnant person and their baby.