Once again, it’s flu season in Florida, and most areas of the state have seen gains in the number of people who’ve caught the bug.
However, state data shows that some areas of the Sunshine State are getting hit harder than others.
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In its most recent report, the CDC has listed Florida as “very high” for flu activity compared to other states.
According to the Florida Department of Health, most counties throughout the state have been seeing an increasing number of these flu cases.
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In the FDOH’s most recent Florida Flu Review, the agency states that the following counties had outbreaks between Dec. 29 and Jan. 4.
- Broward County: One new outbreak
- Duval County: Two new outbreaks
- Miami-Dade County: One new outbreak
- Pinellas County: One new outbreak
- Seminole County: Two new outbreaks
- Volusia County: One new outbreak
FDOH officials say that influenza is particularly a threat to groups like the very young, adults 65 years or older, and pregnant women — groups that typically suffer from compromised immune systems.
The data bears this out, as the FDOH reports that a majority of hospital admissions with flu diagnoses — and deaths — involved people over 65 years of age.
State health officials also recommend annual vaccinations to ward against potentially severe symptoms from the flu.
“Flue shots take up to two weeks to become fully effective, so it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible to reduce your chances of getting the flu this season,” the FDOH website reads. “To locate a vaccine near you, visit VaccineFinder.org.”
Flu season runs through May 17. For more information, visit the FDOH’s website here.
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