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Montgomery County medical officer urges residents to get fall vaccines; county clinics available
Summary
Dr. Alvin Wong, the county's chief medical officer, presented evidence at the commissioners' meeting supporting influenza, RSV and COVID‑19 vaccination for the fall and outlined where residents can get shots; Pennsylvania insurers were said to be required to cover ACIP‑recommended vaccines.
Dr. Alvin Wong, Montgomery County’s chief medical officer and regional EMS medical director, told the Board of Commissioners on Sept. 25 that fall vaccinations — influenza, COVID‑19 and, for some groups, RSV — remain the most effective tools to reduce hospitalizations and protect vulnerable residents.
"When we consider seasonal trends, the proven individual and community benefits, the reduction in deaths and hospitalizations, and the guidance of trusted professional organizations ... the conclusion is very clear. Vaccination is the most effective tool that we have to keep Montgomery County healthy through the fall and winter months," Wong said during a slide presentation summarizing national and professional guidance.
Wong summarized recommendations from major professional bodies: the American Academy of Pediatrics (children), the American Academy of Family Physicians (general population) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (pregnant patients). He said the groups’ guidance aligns on these points: - Influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older; getting the flu shot before October is advised to maximize protection before seasonal peaks. - COVID‑19 vaccines are recommended for people 6 months and older (children) and for adults 18 and older (general guidance), with particular emphasis for those 65 and older, pregnant patients, and people at high risk for severe disease. - RSV vaccination is a newer option with early data showing benefit for high‑risk groups (infants, older adults, pregnant patients); pregnant patients should consult their OB‑GYN for timing.
Wong told the board that on Monday the Pennsylvania Insurance Department and the governor’s office directed private insurers to cover vaccines recommended on the 2024 Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) schedule, reducing cost barriers for insured residents. He also noted federal programs and county clinic options for uninsured residents.
Where to get vaccinated: Wong said residents should consult primary care providers, pediatrics or OB‑GYN offices first, and also noted county Office of Public Health vaccine clinics, local pharmacies and community health centers. He said the county’s web page and a QR code (displayed during the presentation) list county clinic locations and scheduling information.
Ending: Commissioners responded with personal endorsements and said they planned to receive vaccines publicly to encourage uptake. The county’s nursing team was available after the meeting to provide COVID‑19 and flu shots, Wong said.
