SPOKANE, Wash. – Multicare physician and vaccine expert, Dr. Gretchen LaSalle, addressed the recent decline in respiratory immunizations in Washington State.
According to the Washington State Department of Health, as of October 22, 13.6% of Washington residents have received their flu vaccine and 10.8% of Spokane County residents have received their flu vaccine for the 2025-2026 season.
The data shows a steep decline in immunizations compared to previous seasons. During the 2024-2025 season, the Washington State DOH reported nearly 30% of residents received their vaccine.
Dr. LaSalle addressed the recent decline in an interview, highlighting the importance of community immunity.
Community immunity or “herd immunity” relates to when a large number of the population receive immunizations to protect the community as a whole, especially those who are high risk.
“And so if we can have enough people protected through immunization, then it decreases the rate of spread through the community and protects not only ourselves, but those other folks as well,” shared Dr. LaSalle.
Dr. LaSalle shared that people who are healthy are still at risk of facing complications if they get the virus, noting that 40% to 50% of kids who die of influenza were completely healthy children.
With conflicting information online, Dr. LaSalle recommended that those who still have questions or concerns regarding vaccines should speak with a trusted physician or clinician to answer their questions.
Spokane residents who wish to get their flu vaccine but don’t have insurance are asked to contact the Spokane Regional Health District directly for assistance.
