With the COVID-19 pandemic occupying nearly everyone’s mind over the last two-plus years, it’s been hard for some families to remember that other immunizations are extremely important for themselves as well as their children’s health in the short and long term.

For people in Grays Harbor County looking to get their children’s vaccine records up to date, an opportunity is coming up going into the holiday season.

Two no-cost childhood immunization events will be held this month in Hoquiam and Montesano. The events, which are being held by Grays Harbor County Public Health (GHCPH), Health Commons Project and Capital Region ESD 113, will look to provide children who are six months and up as well as adults with a variety of vaccines that they may need.

School-required vaccines that will be provided include DTaP/Tdap, Hepatitis B, Hib, MMR, PCV, Polio and Varicella (Chickenpox). Other recommended vaccines that will be available are vaccines for the flu and HPV as well as COVID-19 shots including the new pediatric Omicron booster.

While no appointment, insurance or proof of residence is needed to attend, GHCPH says that all kids under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and that all attendees must bring their vaccination records for all vaccines. For people who do not have a physical copy of their vaccination records available, an online record can be found at wa.myir.net/rorl?next=/

Vaccines will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and no immunization exemptions or waivers will be issued. Food will be provided as well as $20 gift cards will be handed out while supplies last.

If you want to attend:

For people who are interested in attending any of the no-cost immunization events, the first of two will begin on Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Central Elementary School gym from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Hoquiam. The second event will take place Saturday, Nov. 19, at Montesano City Hall from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more questions, people are encouraged to contact Emma Manley at emanley@graysharbor.us or Kimberly McCaw at kmccaw@graysharbor.us.