Seattle Refocuses Mobile Vaccination Efforts On Younger Adults

SEATTLE — The Seattle Fire Department's mobile vaccination teams are stepping up efforts to make immunizations more convenient than ever, with pop-up clinics planned across the city near parks, restaurants and other high-traffic areas.

Some residents may have already noticed the pop-up clinics around town, including a recent event at Seattle's picaresque Kerry Park. Many more are in the works, starting with a walk-up event on "The Ave" in the Univerity District on Friday.

"As we focus on recovery, vaccination pop-ups are one way of ensuring vaccines are available equitably to everyone while supporting small businesses in the neighborhood,” said Pamela Banks, director of the Office of Economic Development. "The U-District has one of the lowest vaccination rates and many small businesses in high-traffic areas, so it is critical we bring vaccines to them."

Related stories:

• Staying In Phase 3: King County Avoids Rollbacks For Now
• As Vaccine Demand Softens, Hesitancy & Accessibility Enter Focus

With the vast majority of people 65 and older now immunized, Seattle and other King County cities are now refocusing their efforts to reach young people and middle-aged adults, who only became broadly eligible recently and have lower immunization rates. Health officials believe immunizing a large portion of the remaining groups will prove pivotal in tamping down a fourth wave in infections and illness and preventing new restrictions in the future.

"To create easier access for all residents, we’re building innovative new ways to vaccinate our residents and workers," Mayor Jenny Durkan said. "With this mobile approach from Seattle Fire, we’re meeting communities where they are and bringing the vaccine to them. All Seattleites can do their part and help people in their life get vaccinated. We can’t beat this pandemic unless we work together."

Friday's mobile clinic will welcome all people 18 and older, with no appointment needed, at the corner of Northeast 43rd Street and University Way Northeast, between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. Visitors will have the choice between the two-dose Moderna vaccine, or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson.

The city has also partnered with local businesses in the area for some added incentives, including 10 percent off at Big Time Brewery & Alehouse, and $1 off treats at Sweet Alehcmy Ice Creamery.

Those who cannot make it Friday have a growing number of options for receiving vaccines, including walk-ins at three of Seattle's city-run sites and new immunization efforts during Mariners games and Sounders matches. Updates about new vaccination events will be available via Seattle's website.