Whatcom County Health and Community Services to offer free vaccinations for young people

Whatcom County Health and Community Services will host a free vaccination clinic for children aged 18 and under on July 8 at 800 E. Chestnut Street. The clinic will accept walk-ins and appointments from 2:30 p. m. to 5:30 p.

m. , offering routine vaccinations including MMR, hepatitis A and B, chickenpox, and polio. Adults over 19 can receive only free hepatitis A and B vaccinations. Monthly clinics are planned through the end of the year to ensure ongoing access to immunizations. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat low vaccination rates among young people in Whatcom County, which have been a growing concern.

Vaccination is essential for protecting not just individual health but also community health by preventing outbreaks. Local health officials stress the importance of routine immunizations in maintaining herd immunity. The initiative reflects a commitment to public health and the well-being of the community's youth.