Two health stories are unfolding at once this fall, and both affect Philadelphia families. Flu season starts in October — and the CDC says now is the time to get vaccinated. At the same time, measles cases in the U.S. have hit their highest level since 1991, and Pennsylvania is one of the hardest-hit states, with hundreds of cases and several deaths reported this year. Here is what to watch for, and what to do.
Flu: get your shot in September or October
The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. For most people, the ideal window is September or October — aim to be vaccinated by the end of October. Missed that window? Get it anyway: flu typically peaks in February and can circulate into May.
Vaccination matters most for people at higher risk of serious complications: young children, adults 50 and older, pregnant people, and people with asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems — plus the people who live with and care for them.
At Vital Urgent Care, flu shots are $30 — walk in, no appointment needed. We also offer rapid COVID/flu combo testing for $30 if you are already feeling sick and want answers the same visit.
Measles: know the symptoms early
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes — and it can linger in a room for up to two hours after they leave. About 9 in 10 unprotected people near an infected person will catch it.
Symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
A couple of days later, tiny white spots may appear inside the mouth. Then, 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms, the telltale rash appears — starting on the face near the hairline and spreading downward over the neck, trunk, arms, and legs. When the rash shows up, fever can spike above 104°F.
The key thing to know: the rash is not the first symptom. Early measles looks a lot like a common cold, which is why it gets missed. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing it — we offer MMR vaccination for $115.
Think it could be measles? Call us first.
This is important: if you or your child has a high fever with cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a spreading rash, call us at (267) 703-2247 before coming in. That is the standard public-health guidance — it lets us protect other patients in the waiting room. A video visit ($125) may also be an option for an initial evaluation.
Walk in this week
We are open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM, at 3528 I St Suite 108, Philadelphia (Harrowgate Plaza, next to Super Foodtown — free parking). Flu shots, rapid testing, and same-visit care for the symptoms above. Call (267) 703-2247 or just walk in.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If you have questions about vaccines or symptoms, talk to your clinician.
