FORT LAUDERDALE — Though flu season has already started, the Broward County Health Department is encouraging unvaccinated residents and visitors to get vaccinated against influenza (flu).
Compared with most other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, influenza infection often causes a more severe illness, and at times can lead to death, officials say in encouraging everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated against the flu.
Flu vaccine is available through healthcare providers, local retail outlets, and pharmacies.
The flu is a contagious disease, officials say, caused by the influenza virus, and spreads to others when infected persons cough, sneeze or talk.
“The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot,” said Paula Thaqi, director of the Broward County Health Department. “We strongly encourage everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated against the flu.”
Individuals at high risk for flu complications include infants and young children, pregnant women, persons age 65 years and over, and persons of any age with chronic medical conditions, county health officials say.
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