SnoCo Health Department gives free vaccines to kids

Published 1:30 am Thursday, September 25, 2025

EVERETT — School vaccine clinics from the Snohomish County Health Department were available this week for children not up to date on their required shots, a press release said.

Washington state requires proof of immunity to specific diseases including chickenpox, rubella, measles, mumps, polio, tetanus and whooping cough.

Children who are not up to date on their required vaccines are at risk of missing school, the release said. To help, families can visit the public health clinic on the first floor of the health department’s building at 3020 Rucker Ave., Suite 108 in Everett.

Vaccines are still available at no cost to children under 19, regardless of insurance status, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, the release said. Clinics were already held Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

“We are here and we’re excited to work with all of you. Everybody is welcome,” Clinic Manager Kathryn Tomas-Bugayong said in the release.

All vaccines required by schools are available, the release said.

The Health Department set a long-term goal to have nine out of 10 children up to date on their vaccines by the time they enter kindergarten, the release said.

“We aim to raise awareness on the importance of vaccines through health promotion and education within our community,” Tomas-Bugayong said.

The department has held 23 clinics so far this year and administered 812 vaccines, the release said. In 2024, only eight clinics were held and 504 vaccines given.

Snohomish County has seen declines in immunization rates over the last several years, the release said. This increases the risk that vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles – once considered eliminated in the U.S. – will become common once again.

Adult vaccines are also available to those who are uninsured and 19 years or older, the release said. Call 425-339-5234 to inquire about vaccines. The clinic does not currently offer travel vaccines or travel consultations.

The clinic encourages scheduled appointments, the release said. However, walk-ins are available and welcome, but “may experience a wait.”

Taylor Scott Richmond: 425-339-3046; taylor.richmond@heraldnet.com; X: @BTayOkay