September 28, 2018

Florida Health in Charlotte

Encourages Residents to Get Your

Flu Vaccine Before Halloween

Contact:
Jennifer S. Sexton
Jennifer.Sexton@flhealth.gov
941-624-7200 ext. 7279

Port Charlotte, Fla.—Cooler weather and shorter days mark the transition from summer to fall and it’s also a sign that flu season is here. It is critical that all Floridians do their part to prevent getting seasonal flu and spreading it to others by getting the flu vaccine as early as possible. Flu strains change from year to year so it is important to get the flu shot this year even if you got one last year.

“Frequently washing your hands, staying home while sick, and receiving a flu shot are the best ways to protect against and prevent the spread of the influenza virus,” said Joseph Pepe, Interim Health Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County.

The annual flu vaccine is safe and remains the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones. The flu vaccine is 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 so get your flu shot early, preferably before Halloween.

In addition to protecting yourself, receiving the flu vaccine helps prevent the flu virus from spreading to our most vulnerable populations, including older adults, pregnant women, children ages newborn to five and people who have existing medical conditions like asthma.

Flu vaccines are free for children at the Florida Department of Health’s immunization clinic, 1100 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte. A $10 administration fee will be billed to insurance carriers for clients who have coverage. Flu vaccines are free to all pregnant women as well. Clinic hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Appointments are available by calling 941-624-7200. Flu vaccine for adults is $25.78, which includes the $10 administration fee, and may be covered by Medicare or Medicaid.

Remember to get your #VaccineBeforeHalloween and help keep Florida #FluFree this season by getting you and your loved ones vaccinated against the flu. For more information about the flu and where you can get the flu shot this year, please visit www.FluFreeFlorida.com. To watch a 30 second video about how to keep vaccine between you and disease, please click here.

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 Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.