Allegheny County Health Department begins offering flu shot; Experts say act now

PITTSBURGH — Health experts say now is the best time to get a flu shot, and Chanel 11’s Trisha Pittman discovered the Allegheny Health Department has begun to do so.

Starting this week, flu vaccinations will be offered at the County Health Department on Forbes Avenue in Oakland, Pittman reported.

“Bottom line is it’s a great idea not to have to get the flu,” Director of the Allegheny County Health Department Dr. Karen Hacker said. “Between now and November would be the best time to get it.”

The shot is being offered for free to anyone between six months and 18 years old who doesn’t have insurance or whose insurance won’t cover the shot. Anyone with medical coverage will pay a $25 fee.

“The flu vaccine not only helps individuals, but also helps the contagious process and really helps us contain it to a smaller group of people,” Hacker said.

This year’s vaccine protects against three strains that are expected to be a problem this flu season. In addition to the traditional shot, some people are candidates for the flu mist as well.

"It's approved for anyone ages 2 to 49. It is not approved for pregnant women. And again, if there are people who are working with populations who have very low immune system, such as people who have had transplants, we would not advise it for them,” Hacker said.

The clinic is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 1 to 8 p.m.

WPXI