Public health officials are urging people to get their seasonal flu shots, which are available in many places in Whatcom County.

This season's vaccine protects against three strains of the virus, according to the Washington state Department of Health.

The vaccine doesn't protect against the newer H3N2 variant that has shown up in other parts of the country. Most of those cases occurred because of direct contact with pigs at county fairs. None of those reported cases were in Washington.

Public health officials said everyone 6 months and older should be vaccinated to protect against the flu, which usually peaks in January.

For a list of flu-shot locations, go online to co.whatcom.wa.us/health/flu and click on "Seasonal Flu Clinic Schedule" on the left.

Reach KIE RELYEA at kie.relyea@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2234.