Westchester County Department of Health Says Time for Flu Shots

WESTCHESTER, NY (October 18, 2025) — The Westchester County Department of Health is urging residents to get their flu shots this October, highlighting it as one of the best times to stay protected against the seasonal flu. The department emphasizes that while the vaccine doesn’t always prevent the flu, it can reduce the severity of symptoms, helping children recover faster and miss fewer school days.

Each year in the U.S., more than 200,000 people are hospitalized with flu complications, with vulnerable groups including pregnant women, adults aged 50 and older, children under five and their caregivers, nursing home residents, and those with underlying medical conditions. The department encourages staying up to date on vaccines to avoid missing out on fall festivities.

“Autumn is the perfect combination of cozy weather, tasty food, and time well spent with your communities,” the department stated in a recent post. To prevent the spread of the flu, they recommend the Four “C”s: avoid close contact with sick individuals, stay home if ill (especially for 24 hours after a fever subsides), cover coughs or sneezes with an elbow or tissue, and clean hands and frequently touched surfaces regularly.

Flu shots are available for a fee at area pharmacists, medical offices, and neighborhood health centers. Residents are advised to call ahead to confirm vaccine availability.

Local options include Westchester Community Health Centers in Mount Vernon (914-699-7200), Yonkers (914-968-4898), and Greenburgh (914-989-7600), as well as Sun River Health locations in New Rochelle (855-681-8700), White Plains (855-681-8700), Peekskill (914-734-8800), and two Yonkers sites (914-964-7862 and 914-965-9771). Open Door Family Medical Centers offer services in Mamaroneck (914-732-0233), Mt. Kisco (914-666-3272), Ossining (914-941-1263), Port Chester (914-937-8899), and Sleepy Hollow (914-631-4141).

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends the flu vaccine for everyone six months and older, with special emphasis on pregnant women, children under five, people over 50, those with chronic conditions, nursing home residents, and healthcare workers. However, individuals with severe egg allergies, prior severe reactions to the vaccine, or Guillain-Barré syndrome within six weeks of a previous shot should consult a healthcare provider. Those with moderate to severe illness and fever should wait until recovery before vaccination.

For more information and to locate COVID-19 and flu medications requiring a prescription, visit the HHS locator, which lists pharmacies and clinics.

Additional details are available here.

This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.