COVID-19 Resources for Individuals

The updated, “bivalent” COVID-19 booster now available is designed to protect us from Omicron, the most common form of the virus spreading right now. “Bivalent” means that the booster helps to protect against two different types of the virus, both the original strain and the Omicron strain.

The previous vaccines and boosters focused on protection against the original strain. They offered some protection against Omicron, but not as much as the updated bivalent boosters.

Because the updated booster targets both strains of COVID-19, it can help to prevent serious illness and death, especially for adults over age 50. Vaccination can also lower the risk for long COVID, which can lead to serious long-term health problems. It is very important to stay up-to-date with your vaccinations and boosters, or they may offer less protection over time as COVID-19 continues to evolve. 

Updated boosters are free and no insurance or proof of citizenship is required.

If you need language interpretation or disability accommodation, email PublicHealthAccommodations@kingcounty.gov or call 206-477-3977.

LOCAL HEALTH OFFICERS AND HEALTHCARE LEADERS RECOMMEND WEARING MASKS INDOORS

Public Health - Seattle & King Health Officer Dr. Jeff Duchin joins other local health officers and healthcare leaders in recommending masking in indoor public spaces and other prevention measures given the high level of respiratory viruses circulating and stress on hospitals.

Communities across Washington state and around the U.S. are experiencing an unprecedented surge in viral respiratory illnesses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and COVID-19. As health officers and healthcare leaders working to improve the health of Washington residents, we recommend that everyone wear a high-quality, well-fitting mask when around others in indoor spaces to protect against both acquiring and spreading these infections to others.

The King County Department of Health also urges everyone who is eligible to stay up to date on their vaccinations. Vaccinations are the most important way to protect against severe influenza and COVID-19 infections, including hospitalization and death. Everyone 6 months and older can be vaccinated against these diseases.

COVID-19 Vaccine Resources

Covid Booster Information, Public Health

  • Where to get updated boosters for the whole family: Check your local pharmacy or contact your healthcare provider to see if they have the updated booster shots. Public Health has updated boosters at vaccination sites at the Auburn Outlet Mall (drop-ins welcome) and Eastgate Public Health Center. For more information and locations: kingcounty.gov/vaccine
  • King County Public Health has a variety of in-depth information about the three, federally-approved COVID-19 vaccines HERE.
  • Learn about COVID-19 Vaccine Safety from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) HERE.
  • See how many King County residents have received vaccines on the COVID-19 Vaccination Dashboard HERE.
  • Find and Schedule a vaccination with the Washington State Vaccination Finder Map HERE.
  • Schedule a vaccination locally at the Snoqualmie Valley Hospital Drive-through HERE.
  • King County Public Health’s events calendar is updated routinely with vaccine events HERE.
  • The following locations are offering PHSKC-sponsored Community Vaccination Events:
    • 12/14: 10:00a-2:00p YWCA (3rdAve.), Seattle
    • 12/14: 1:00p-5:30p Seattle School for Boys 
    • 12/15: 11:00a-4:00p Southeast Seattle Senior Center, Seattle
    • 12/16: 1:00p-3:00p Safeway Parking Lot (S 3rd St.), Renton 
    • 12/16: 3:30p-6:30p African Community Housing Development, SeaTac 
    • 12/17: 1:00p-5:00p Angel of Hope Engagement Center, Seattle 
  • The following vaccine providers serving children and youth currently have excess capacity:

COVID-19 UPDATES & RESOURCES

COVID-19 Financial Assistance Resources


JOBS RESOURCES

As local businesses reopen to capacity, many are actively seeking employees. Find local job opportunities at www.snovalleyjobs.com.

Personal Protective Equipment

North Bend City Staff are handing out free cloth face masks to residents and businesses. Should you wish to pick up masks for your family or business, or request a local delivery, email Emergency Operations Coordinator: emitchell@northbendwa.gov. 

Trouble Paying Rent or Mortgage

If you don’t have enough money to pay, contact your lender or landlord immediately. Help includes:

• Washington Homeownership Hotline (877-894-HOME)
• Rental assistance & counseling (800-569-4287)
• List of Housing Counseling Agencies


Student Loans Deferment 

If you need help with your student loans, you may be able to temporarily suspend your payments by applying for a deferment or forbearance from the US Department of Education.

Paying Utilities

If you need help paying your utility bills, contact your service provider immediately.

• Puget Sound Energy offers various bill assistance programs to help customers struggling to pay bills.
• The Utilities and Transportation Commission offers energy assistance programs.
• The federal government also has assistance programs to help with telephone and heating bills.

Food Assistance

If you’re looking for help feeding yourself or your family, visit the Food Lifeline website to find a partner food bank, food pantry, or hot meal program in your neighborhood. This food is free and available to you, even if you don’t qualify for SNAP or EBT.

Insurance Issues

The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner has resources and information available for consumers who have insurance related questions.

• Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner - COVID-19 Resources Information from the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner.