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Central Florida Residents Encouraged to be Alert to Flu Both the Health Department and Centra Care are saying Central Floridians need to be on alert for flu. Right now flu cases for the Orlando area are in the moderate range, but there's a rise in cases in nearby states, and that could cause a problem for people here. If you haven’t had a flu shot this year, you’re not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says nationally- only 39-percent of people have had a flu shot this year. And while that’s up slightly from last year, health officials still see it as a low vaccination rate. Orange/Seminole County Health Department spokesman Dain Weister says holiday visiting, mixing and mingling can bring on a rise in flu cases, so it’s important to stay vigilant. “Remember to also protect yourself by washing your hands thoroughly, covering your coughs and sneezes as much as you can, and just try to do your best with hygiene, ” he says. Flu shots are recommended for everyone ages 6-months and older. Flu shots are covered by Medicare, many insurance plans, and are free for all children through the health department. This year’s vaccine protects against 3 strains of flu, including H1N1. |
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