Island County School Vaccine Clinics Serve Young Children, Expand Access

Island County public health partners held a series of vaccine clinics for young children during the week of December 4, bringing influenza and COVID immunizations to neighborhood schools and community sites. Clinics were held December 4 at Oak Harbor Elementary, December 7 at South Whidbey Elementary North Campus in Langley, and December 9 at Coupeville Elementary. Vaccines were offered free or at low cost for eligible children under five, with appointments preferred and updates posted by local health authorities.

Organizing clinics at elementary schools and community venues is intended to make vaccinations more accessible for families who face transportation, work schedule, or cost barriers. By hosting clinics in familiar local settings, public health partners sought to reach children who might otherwise delay or miss recommended immunizations. Timely vaccinations reduce the chance of severe illness in young children, and they help limit spread of influenza and COVID in households, schools, and the wider community.

These clinics reflect ongoing efforts to align public health outreach with community needs. School based events can be especially important for parents who lack a regular pediatric provider or who face financial barriers to care, because free and low cost options reduce up front costs and simplify logistics. Providers recommend keeping routine well child care and vaccination records up to date, and following up with a primary care clinic when possible for ongoing care and any needed booster doses.

Families who missed the December clinics are encouraged to check Island County health department postings for future clinic dates and site times, and to note that appointments may be preferred. Local clinics and school based events will likely continue to be a practical option this season for protecting young children and reducing disease burden across the island community.