Delaware County launches free vaccination clinics ahead of flu season

UPPER DARBY, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — The Delaware County Health Department looks to get a jump on the flu season through a series of free vaccination clinics.

Upper Darby hosted the first flu vaccination clinic of the season on Thursday, at SEPTA’s 69th Street Transportation Center.

“We know that currently, we’re in the time of the flu season when there is a heightened response to contracting the flu and becoming very ill,” said Dr. Gifty Akomea Key, administrator of the department’s population health division. She says there’s no crystal ball to predict what kind of flu season is ahead, though the department can focus on preparedness.

“We’re concerned with ensuring people don’t get sick and so putting in those measures such as providing vaccinations to prevent illness or at least the spread thereof.”

The walk-up clinic was open to everyone, regardless of insurance status, with no registration required. “We really wanted to hit the unhoused population around here,” said Ali Fequiere, a community health emergency preparedness planner for the department.

Anyone who missed Thursday’s free clinic can attend the next one at the Tinicum Fire Department on Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

“That will be a drive-thru essentially,” said Key, “so not only are we hoping to get people from different areas in Delaware County, but it’s also convenient for those who may be passing by and want that quick vaccination and to be able to continue on their way.”

Fequiere says although it’s still summer and may feel like it’s a little early for a flu shot, now is the perfect time to get one.

“It takes two weeks for the immunity to kick in,” she said, “so you want to get it two weeks before you’re really worrying about it.”