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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Prevent The Flu This Season

By Florida Department of Health, Office of Communications

November 01, 2013

Flu season is here and the Florida Department of Health urges residents andvisitors to take precautions to help limit their risk of exposure to infection. Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death.

“Take action now to protect yourself and your family from the flu,” said State Surgeon Generaland Secretary of Health Dr. John H. Armstrong. “Floridians need to get their annual flu shot, wash their hands regularly and stay home if they do become ill.”

Symptoms of the flu include headache, fever, severe cough, runny nose or body aches. Contact your health care provider immediately if symptoms appear.

The Department offers the following prevention tips:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth since germs spread this way.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • If you or your children are sick with a flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, unless you need medical care.
  • Get vaccinated every year since flu viruses change.

Check with your physician, your local county health department or locate a flu shot.

For more information, visit https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/prevention/flu-prevention/index.html.

Additional Resources

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