Flu Vaccines Available Every Wednesday
1 - 4 p.m.

Allegany County Health Department Multi-Purpose Clinic
Willowbrook Office Complex - First Floor
12501 Willowbrook Road SE
Cumberland, MD 21502

Click HERE for a map and directions.

Vaccines are available on a walk-in basis, and both the seasonal influenza vaccine and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine are available.  As last year, both the regular flu shot and the high-dose flu shot for those 65 and older will be offered.  The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months of age and older, especially the very young and the elderly, and those with other complicating health conditions such as heart disease, obesity, respiratory conditions, or neurological conditions.  Caregivers for children under 6 months of age are also recommended to be vaccinated, as children younger than 6 months cannot receive the flu vaccine.

PRICING

Regular influenza vaccine: $30
High-dose: $44 (age 65 and older)
Pneumococcal: $65

Payment is accepted at the time of service in the form of cash or check.  Additionally, the health department can bill Medicare and non-PAC Maryland Physician’s Care.  For all other insurance plans, clients will be required to pay at the time of service, and a receipt will be provided upon request should you wish to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider.

Flu Facts:

Why should you get a flu shot?  Each year seasonal influenza results in the hospitalization of roughly 200,000 people in the U.S., and more than 36,000 people nationwide die from influenza-related complications.  Children younger than 2 years of age are as likely to be hospitalized as senior citizens.  Getting the flu shot may prevent getting the flu, or at least reduce the severity of illness, and can help prevent the spread of the flu to at-risk members of the vaccinated person’s household.  Even healthy individuals with strong immune systems should be vaccinated, particularly if they reside with or care for senior citizens, young children, or others who may be at high risk of complications from seasonal flu.

The seasonal flu is highly contagious.  It spreads from an infected person to another person through the air by coughing or sneezing. It is also spread by direct contact with infected people. Flu symptoms usually begin one to four days after being exposed to the flu virus. 

Typical flu symptoms included fever, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. Children sometimes may experience middle ear inflammation (otitis media) as well as gastrointestinal problems including nausea and vomiting.

Ways to decrease your chances of getting the flu are:

• Get vaccinated for the flu (flu vaccines are 70% to 90% effective among healthy adults).
• Avoid prolonged contact with individuals showing possible symptoms of the flu.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to build your immune system.
• Eat balanced meals, including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables; drink lots of water.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Wash hands frequently.

If you believe you are ill with the flu:

• Contact your physician or health care provider for treatment information.
• Cover your sneeze or cough with a tissue.
• Do not go to work or send ill children to school.

More information is available at the DHMH Web site at www.dhmh.state.md.us or by logging on to the CDC Web site at www.cdc.gov/flu.