SANFORD – The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County (DOH-Seminole) encourages all Floridians to Fight the Flu by getting a flu shot this season. Getting the flu shot is the first and most important step to fight the flu and its potential serious complications.
Flu shots for children and adults are available at the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County, Sanford located at 400 West Airport Boulevard by appointment Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Flu shots are free for children 6 months through 18 years of age. To schedule an appointment call (407) 665-3700. For more information on immunizations visit http://seminole.floridahealth.gov. You may also get the flu vaccine through your health care provider, local pharmacy or supermarket.
“Flu season has started, and you can help stop the spread of flu viruses by getting the flu vaccine and practicing everyday prevention measures such as washing your hands and covering your cough and sneeze,” said Donna Walsh, health officer for the Florida Department of Health in Seminole County.
Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. It is possible to have flu, as well as other respiratory illnesses, and COVID-19 at the same time. Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, making it difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Diagnostic testing can help determine if you are sick with flu or COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance states that COVID-19 vaccine can be administered with flu vaccine. Please remember to consult with your healthcare provider about getting both vaccines.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop protection against the flu, so the CDC recommends getting the flu shot by the end of October each year to prepare for the increase in influenza activity. Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death.
Check with your physician or use our Flu Shot Locator to schedule your flu vaccine by visiting www.FluFreeFlorida.com .
