Contact:
Kent Donahue
Kent.Donahue@flhealth.gov

407-858-1418

 

Orlando, FL – September 21 is National Get Ready for Flu Day. The Florida Department of Health in Orange County encourages residents older than six months of age to get their flu shot for the 2022-2023 flu season. Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu and its potentially serious complications. Contact your healthcare provider or local pharmacy to get vaccinated against influenza (flu).

Getting the flu shot each year is important and recommended for everyone six months and older, including pregnant women. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop protection against the flu.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine each fall.

Receiving your flu vaccination even if you are healthy prevents illness in our most vulnerable populations. People at higher risk for flu-related complications include children ages newborn to five, adults over the age of 65, pregnant women and people
who have existing medical conditions such as asthma.

Here are tips to prevent the spread of seasonal flu:
• Stay home if you’re sick to mitigate the transmission of the virus
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly

Check with your physician, local pharmacy, or use our Flu Shot Locatorto schedule your flu vaccine. Visit FluFreeFlorida.com for the Flu Shot Locator and more information on how you can be a part of #FluFreeFL.

 

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.