Sanford, Fla. - The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) encourages all Floridians to Fight the Flu by getting a flu shot this 2019 flu season. Getting the flu shot is the first and most important step to fight the flu and its potential serious complications. Floridians should get the flu vaccine to protect against infection and help prevent the spread of seasonal flu to others.

Flu shots for children and adults are available at the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County, Sanford located at 400 West Airport Boulevard by appointment Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Flu shots are free for children 6 months through 18 years of age. To schedule an appointment call (407) 665-3700. For more information on immunizations visit https://seminole.floridahealth.gov.

"Getting a flu shot each year provides protection for you and your loved ones. In addition to the flu vaccine, it is important to take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs; such as, cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, wash your hands often with soap and water and stay home when sick," said Donna Walsh, health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County.

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, including pregnant women. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop protection against the flu. Every flu season is unique, and influenza infection can affect people differently. Millions of people get the flu every year, hundreds of thousands of people are hospitalized and thousands of people die from flu-related causes every year. An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to help protect against flu.

Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors' visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. Receiving your flu vaccination if you are healthy helps to prevent illness in our most vulnerable populations. Vaccination is also important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza including infants and young children, people 65 years and older, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and those with a weakened immune system.

Check with your physician or use our Flu Shot Locator to schedule your flu vaccine by visiting www.FluFreeFlorida.com.

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.

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