Thanks to amazing work from community partners, healthcare providers, Public Health staff and the people of King County, our county has one of the highest vaccination rates of any large metro area in the U.S. As vaccination coverage has increased, vaccine demand has diminished, both locally and nationally.
This month, we’re adjusting operations at some King County community vaccination clinics to better align with demand.
Starting on April 15:
- The community vaccination clinic at the Kent Public Health Center will close (last day open will be April 15)
- The Auburn Outlet Collection Mall vaccination site will remain open with the same hours (10:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.), but will be open Friday – Monday
“While demand for COVID-19 vaccine no longer supports maintaining the Kent community vaccination site, we will continue to connect community members to resources through healthcare providers, pharmacies, and community clinics,” said Dennis Worsham, Interim Director for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “These partnerships have been instrumental for reaching our high level of community vaccination and will continue to be critical for ensuring access to boosters and future COVID-19 vaccinations.”
While we are transitioning services provided directly by Public Health, we continue to work with partners to be prepared to expand services in the event of future COVID-19 surges or vaccination needs. Many local vaccination providers have confirmed they will be able to increase vaccination capacity based on demand.
Where to Get Vaccinated
For those in the Kent area, the community vaccination clinic at SeaMar Kent will remain open for drop-ins and same-day appointments. King County’s vaccination site at the Auburn Outlet Collection Mall will also remain open to help address gaps in access, particularly in south King County where we know there are fewer healthcare providers. And, HealthPoint Renton provides vaccinations to anyone eligible, including those who are not currently established patients, by appointment.
Other community vaccination sites run by King County and partners will remain open, including sites in Bellevue, Federal Way, Seattle, and Snoqualmie. See the full list of sites on our vaccine webpage. And, as always, many local pharmacies and healthcare clinics provide COVID-19 vaccination.
COVID-19 vaccination and boosters are free, regardless of insurance or immigration status.
Don’t Forget Your Booster!
One of the most important elements to protecting yourself and your family from serious illness from COVID-19 is to make sure you’re not just fully vaccinated, but also that you’ve received your booster dose. Only 55% of King County residents ages 12 years and older have received a booster dose.
Our community vaccination sites and clinics run by our partners remain open to provide free COVID-19 vaccine and boosters to anyone ages 12 years and older. Some sites accept drop-ins (no appointment needed) or can offer a same-day appointment – check our webpage or call the site ahead of time to confirm.
Originally published April 8, 2022.