Novel coronavirus information

October 21, 2022

Stay healthy: Schedule your COVID-19 updated booster and flu shot now (Message to UW Medicine patients)

This message was sent to UW Medicine patients.

QUICK READ:

  • UW Medicine encourages all eligible people to schedule their COVID-19 vaccines and annual flu shots now.
  • The new bivalent boosters from Pfizer and Moderna provide protection against the original virus that causes COVID-19 and omicron variants.
  • UW Medical Center – Northwest and UW Medical Center – Montlake have many appointments available for the new boosters, but only for a limited time.

To Our Valued Patients and Their Families:

While many of us are making plans for holiday travel and gatherings, we are also entering a time of year when cases of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses are likely to increase. To stay as healthy as possible for our fall and winter activities, UW Medicine encourages all eligible people to schedule their COVID-19 vaccines and annual flu shots now.

COVID-19 Updated Booster: In September, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) authorized updated boosters from Pfizer and Moderna. These bivalent boosters protect against both the original virus that causes COVID-19 and the omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5. They are also expected to provide protection against new omicron subvariants.

The CDC recommends the updated booster for people ages 5 and older if it has been at least two months since their last COVID-19 vaccine dose (final primary series dose or a previous booster).

Don’t Wait: UW Medicine is providing updated booster shots at our dedicated vaccination clinics, located at UW Medical Center – Northwest and UW Medical Center – Montlake. This is the most convenient way to get your booster shot, but these sites will only be open for a limited time.

  • Ages 12 and Older: You can book your appointment online or by calling 844.520.8700 and joining our waitlist. When you call, we will typically get back to you within one day.
  • Ages 5 to 11: Call 844.520.8700 to schedule an appointment for children in this age group. Online booking is not currently available.
  • Primary Care and Specialty Care Clinics: In addition to our dedicated vaccination clinics, COVID-19 vaccines are available at UW Medicine Primary Care and some specialty care clinics. Call 844.520.8700 for scheduling information.

Pfizer vs. Moderna: When you make your appointment, you can request either booster. In most cases and depending on supply, we will be able to accommodate your request. Your vaccine for the updated booster can be different from your primary series or last booster. For more information, visit UW Medicine COVID-19 Information.

Flu Prevention: The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of serious complications from influenza. UW Medicine patients can schedule their flu shot online at most primary care clinic locations or by calling 206.520.5000.

We wish you a healthy fall and winter and thank you for choosing UW Medicine as your healthcare partner.

Sincerely,

Timothy H. Dellit, MD
Interim CEO, UW Medicine
Interim Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs and
Interim Dean of the School of Medicine,
University of Washington

Cynthia Dold
Interim President, UW Medicine Hospitals & Clinics
Interim Vice President for Medical Affairs,
University of Washington