Flu vaccine ‘essential’
While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect our daily lives, autumn brings with it another unwanted visitor – the flu.
The presence of both viruses could put more people in the hospital and strain Washington’s health care system, a state health news release says, adding while there isn’t yet have a vaccine to prevent the coronavirus there is one to prevent flu.
Everyone 6 months and older needs a flu vaccine, the release says. Young children, pregnant women, people with underlying health conditions, and those age 65 and older are at high risk of complications from flu. The flu is highly contagious and can be fatal – even in healthy young people. Getting a shot reduces your chances of getting the flu, but does not prevent other respiratory infections.
“Think of it as essential to get a flu vaccine this year,” said Dr. Kathy Lofy, the state health officer.
Washington provides all recommended vaccines at no cost for kids from birth through age 18, available statewide.
For details visit www.KnockOutFlu.org.
Shred event
A Shred Event Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon will take place at Kitsap Bank’s Bainbridge Island Branch, 10140 High School Road NE.
The public can bring outdated or sensitive documents for safe destruction and disposal, and to support the food bank with a monetary donation. All funds will go to support Helpline House.
Charles Robertson, senior vice president of retail banking, said, “Through the shred event we hope to raise awareness of the needs here at home and be able to support the food bank during these challenging times.”
Participants are asked to limit documents to a maximum of 75 pounds per vehicle.
Local selected
Merrill Keating of Bainbridge Island will represent the United States as part of the inaugural Youth Delegation, participating in dialogues on creating an inclusive, sustainable future
The first virtual global youth takeover of the United Nations will take place Oct. 24. It will connect 1,500 Youth Delegates with top-level decision-makers and influencers to co-create solutions to global challenges. Speakers include senior leaders from the World Health Organization, UN Foundation, UNAIDS, The World Bank Group, Nobel Peace Prize Laureates and a variety of celebrity mentors.
“It is exciting to participate in YOUNGA,” Keating said. “I am passionate about STEM for Social Good, gender equality, education and a host of other issues being championed by changemakers, and I look forward to making an impact.”
Delegates receive access to a free four-week program that includes top-notch leadership and advocacy training, along with curated career advancement and networking opportunities. Programming focuses on five thematic tracks that align with youth priorities and UN75 topics: Climate Action and Sustainable Living, Equality and Inclusion, Future of Education and Work, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and Peace and Justice.
Newest location
Harbor Audiology & Hearing Services is opening a new location on Bainbridge Island.
Dr. Laura Moran first opened Harbor Audiology in 1998, believing in the importance of healthy hearing and the effects it can have on individuals and their families and loved ones. She uniquely tailors treatment to each individual.
With over 22 years of experience, the company offers a range of services and products including: comprehensive hearing tests, hearing aids, tinnitus evaluations, occupational screenings, workers compensation claims, balance disorders, hearing protection, cochlear evaluations and auditory processing disorder testing.
Traffic delays
Traffic on Highway 305 through Poulsbo may be slower than usual Oct. 9 due to some tree trimming.
The state Department of Transportation put out a notice that from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. a private contractor will be removing trees near Totten Road/ Lemolo Shore Drive, causing portions of SR305 to close intermittently for about five minutes.
Marriage
Brittain Mason and Brian Huey were married Sept. 4 on Bainbridge Island on a beach overlooking Seattle.
She graduated from Bainbridge High School in 2002. The wedding was at her parents, Jeff and Maria Mason, home on Bainbridge Island.
He and his parents, Kent and Mary Huey, are from Alaska.
