The Florida Department of Health is encouraging residents to get a flu shot for the 2022-2023 flu season, according to a news release.
The vaccine is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older, including pregnant women. Individuals who are most at risk of severe illness from the flu are young children, pregnant women, people with cetain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, and people age 65 years and older, the release said.
It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop protection against the flu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reminds everyone that it is safe to receive a flu vaccine at the same time a COVID-19 vaccine is given.
Each of the Tampa Bay area county health departments, and most pharmacies and primary care physician offices offer flu shots.
For information about the flu and to find locations to get the seasonal vaccine, visit FluFreeFlorida.com.
Here are healthy habits to help prevent the flu:
- Wash your hands, to help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illness. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing to help prevent those around you from getting sick. Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces in the home, school or office.
- Contain the virus, too, and stay home when you are sick.
