Health Dept. Announces COVID-19 Vaccines, Launches Respiratory Virus Dashboard
PITTSBURGH – The Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) today announced the arrival of its supply of the 2024-2025 formula COVID-19 vaccines. With a rise in COVID-19 cases since late May, ACHD is encouraging all eligible residents to receive their updated vaccinations promptly to protect themselves and their community.
COVID-19 Vaccines
Residents aged 6 months and older are highly encouraged to receive the latest COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of whether they have previously been vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination remains the most effective protection against COVID-19-related symptoms, severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
"The COVID-19 virus continues to evolve, and vaccine protection can diminish over time," said Dr. Barbara Nightingale, ACHD Deputy Director for Clinical Services. "Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine can restore immunity and provide enhanced protection against the variants that are currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States. We particularly encourage our residents over the age of 65 to get vaccinated this year."
In 2023, Allegheny County reported 355 COVID-19-related deaths and over 5,000 hospitalizations. The new vaccines are safe, effective, and have undergone rigorous monitoring and evaluation since their emergency use authorization (EUA) in December 2020.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccines
Residents are also urged to receive their flu shot to protect against influenza during the fall and winter months when the virus is most active. The flu vaccine helps prevent infection and reduces the spread of the virus to friends, family, and neighbors.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccines
In addition to the updated COVID-19 vaccine, ACHD recommends that residents aged 75 years and older, pregnant individuals, and infants receive the RSV vaccine. RSV, a common respiratory virus, can cause serious illness in infants and older adults, often requiring hospitalization.
“The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine for everyone 75 years and older and for certain adults aged 60 to 74 who are at risk for severe RSV,” explained Dr. Nightingale. “Pregnant people may receive the vaccine late in their pregnancy, or infants can receive a long-acting antibody injection (nirsevimab) to protect them against RSV. The antibody injection, which was in short supply last year, is now available.”
Vaccine Availability
Residents can obtain COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines at their healthcare provider, local pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and the ACHD’s Immunization Clinic. Uninsured residents or those whose health plans do not cover the cost can receive a free vaccine at the ACHD’s Immunization Clinic. Appointments can be booked online via MyChart or by calling 412-578-8062. Walk-ins are also welcome. For clinic location, hours, and service information, please visit the ACHD Immunization Clinic website.
New Respiratory Virus Dashboard
The ACHD has launched a new respiratory virus dashboard, providing an interactive platform for the public to explore data related to COVID-19, influenza (flu), and RSV within the county. This new tool replaces the previous COVID-19 Infections dashboard and displays data on reported infections, emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths.
“The dashboard is a great way to check what is happening right now in the county with regard to COVID, flu, and RSV,” noted Dr. Kristen Mertz, ACHD’s medical epidemiologist. The new dashboard can be accessed via the ACHD COVID-19, flu, and RSV webpages.
For more information about the new vaccines, the respiratory virus dashboard, or any ACHD services, please visit Allegheny County Health Department webpage.
About Allegheny County Health Department
The Allegheny County Health Department is committed to protecting and improving public health through the promotion of health equity, prevention of disease, and ensuring safe and healthy environments. We strive to build a healthier Allegheny County for all its residents.
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