Health department decreases clinic services; air quality, food safety programs continue

The Allegheny County Health Department on Friday announced the closure of clinics and curtailed programs as the number of identified COVID-19 cases in the county reached 28.

The department will close its immunization clinic starting Monday and will stop administering tuberculosis skin tests at its pulmonary clinic “until further notice.”

Pediatric dental clinics will be closed until March 30, but residents can reach a county representative at 412-687-2243 in case of emergencies.

The Women, Infants and Children program will operate on a modified schedule until March 30. WIC offices in Downtown, Wilkinsburg, McKeesport and Mount Oliver will be open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Springdale WIC office will be open during those hours only on Thursdays and Fridays. The county is urging WIC recipients to call ahead at 412-350-5801 before heading to an appointment and to leave children at home “to reduce their risk of exposure.”

The county’s Housing and Community Environment program will respond “solely for facilities with emergency complaints: no heat, no water, no electric, or sewage backup,” the announcement said. To submit a complaint, residents can call 412-350-4046 or submit an online form.

Food safety measures will continue to be enforced, as restaurants are still allowed to serve takeout. The health department has issued a guidance document of “important tips” for restaurant workers and delivery drivers. Members of the public and food workers can contact the agency with questions about food operations at 412-578-8044 or ACHDFood@AlleghenyCounty.us. Food certification classes have been canceled until March 31.

Allegheny County Veterans Services has temporarily relocated to room 202 in the County Courthouse, 436 Grant St. Veterans can contact the office at 412-621-4357 or veterans@alleghenycounty.us.

Complaints about air quality continue to be processed, according to the announcement, and can be submitted via phone at 412-578-8103 or through an online form.

The county’s plumbing program will continue to operate normally and can be reached at 412-578-8036.