ACHD Public Health Laboratory (Clack Health Center) – Pittsburgh, PA

Allegheny County Public Health Laboratory

The Allegheny County Health Department (ACHD) Public Health Laboratory, historically located within the Clack Health Center complex in the Lawrenceville neighborhood, serves as a critical component of the county’s disease prevention and environmental health infrastructure. While the department has expanded to new facilities, this location remains a designated drop-off point for specific biological specimens, playing a key role in the surveillance of infectious diseases and the protection of public health in Pittsburgh and the surrounding region.

Laboratory Services and Functions

• Rabies Specimen Submission: This facility is a primary drop-off location for animal specimens suspected of carrying rabies. Proper packaging and advance notification are typically required for submissions.
• Environmental Testing: The lab system supports water quality testing and other environmental health monitoring to ensure the safety of the county’s natural resources and drinking water.
• Infectious Disease Surveillance: The laboratory network conducts testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), tuberculosis, and other communicable diseases to track and control outbreaks.
• Emergency Preparedness: As part of the county’s emergency response team, the lab is equipped to handle biological threats and support public health investigations during health crises.

Facility Access

Located at 3901 Penn Avenue, the laboratory drop-off is part of the larger Clack Health Center, which houses various other health department divisions including immunization and dental clinics. Access to the laboratory for specimen drop-off is generally restricted to specific hours and authorized personnel or residents with prior instructions. The facility follows strict biosafety protocols to ensure the safety of staff and the community. Visitors should confirm current drop-off procedures and hours via the ACHD website before arrival, as protocols may evolve with departmental updates.