Puget Sound area veterans enrolled in VA care now eligible for Covid-19 vaccine
Puget Sound area veterans enrolled in VA care now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine
In Shelton, a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination clinic was open for local veterans of all ages to receive a vaccine. Q13's Franque Thompson reports.
SEATTLE - Good news for Puget Sound area veterans: If you're enrolled in VA health care, you can schedule a Covid-19 vaccine at any of the four VA facilities in the region.
Those clinics include American Lake and Seattle medical centers and the Silverdale and Mount Vernon clinics, according to the VA's website.
"This is likely the most important thing I’ll do in my career. I think this is a really great opportunity to be a service to our community and make sure that we’re getting veterans vaccinated as quickly, efficiently and safely as possible," said Maureen McLain, vaccine coordinator for Veteran Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System.
The vaccines are available to all veterans in the VA health care system. There are no age or health restrictions, though higher-risk veterans - older veterans, those with preexisting conditions and veterans living in nursing homes - will be prioritized.
Ben Savage served in the U.S. Army for 12 years. He said he wanted to get the COVID-19 vaccine for the sake of his family.
"It’s critical. I’m a single dad with two boys and I need them as much as they need me. And I don’t need to take any chances on risking my health," said Savage.
Eligible veterans have to make an appointment for the shot by calling 206-716-5716.
If you're not sure whether you're eligible for VA health care, you can learn more here.
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