Flu season is upon us

The flu is not the common cold.  It is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection that can cause mild to severe illness, sometimes leading to death, primarily in the elderly and the chronically ill.

Getting immunized early can help keep you from getting the flu or keep flu symptoms from getting worse. The vaccine protects against three strains of influenza virus expected to circulate this season – H1N1 Type A, H3N2 Type A, and a Type B influenza virus.

FIND the Allegheny County Health Department Information about

• who should be immunized,
• what you can do to prevent yourself from getting the flu and
• what to do if you get the flu.

FIND the Allegheny County Health Department Immunization Walk-in Clinic location and hours of operation  

The Health Department’s walk-in clinic provides the vaccine free of charge to children from six months through 18 years old and as a covered benefit to people with Medicare Part B who are not in an HMO and may get vaccine from any Medicare-approved provider.

Injectable vaccine is $25 for others, including Medicare Part B subscribers in an HMO who are restricted to getting flu vaccine as a covered benefit only from their primary care provider.

Nasal spray vaccine, approved for people from two years through 49 years old who have no chronic medical condition, is free for children and $10 for those 19 through 49 years.

A limited supply of injectable flu vaccine without thimerosal will be offered free of charge to children from six months through 18 years of age. Please call 412-687-ACHD in advance to make sure it’s available.

Adults in Special Circumstances

Homebound Older Adults
Older homebound adults who meet eligibility requirements can be immunized against the flue for free between October 1 and December 1, 2012. Details on this program. 
Free Flu Shots for Homebound Seniors

Resources

 Influenza Frequently Asked Questions