Reuters
Ahead of the winter season, there is growing concern about the so-called ‘triple epidemic’, where three viruses, influenza and RSV, as well as the Corona 19 variant virus are common at the same time.
The Kingshire Health Authority said the number of patients infected with viruses ranging from influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as mutations of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19), is increasing significantly, and it causes great concern. situation.
Dr said. Eric Chow of the King County Health Department, “The number of RSV cases has already been higher than in the last four years, and it suddenly exploded last week.
Health authorities recommend vaccination as the best prevention, but even this is not easy. This is because it is difficult to reserve space for vaccination as people flock immediately.
Seattle resident Sabrina Canman said, “I search almost every drugstore website like CVS, Bartel, and Light Aid, but the vaccine is only available after two or even four weeks.
“Getting a flu shot in Seattle is as hard as finding a unicorn,” Sabrina shared on social media about her struggles to find a place to get vaccinated. Other residents then shared their experiences, saying, “You have to wait a month” and “You can get hit 50 miles away.”
Health officials explained that the lack of vaccine was not the reason for the difficulty in getting vaccinated.
“Many pharmacies and medical institutions are struggling with a shortage of medical workers, including nurses, who can vaccinate,” said Kate Cole, King County Health Department.
King County advises residents who wish to be vaccinated to first check their local pharmacies and find out where vaccinations are available through the state’s website (Vaccines.gov).
In particular, most King County School District school health centers provide free vaccinations to students, and local health centers such as SeaMar and HealthPoint may also provide vaccinations.
