Florida is in the middle of flu season, but it’s not too late to get your immunization. In addition to taking precautions such as proper handwashing, it’s very important to avoid this serious illness by getting the seasonal flu vaccine. Flu strains change from year to year so it is important to get the flu shot if you have skipped it thus far.

The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County (DOH-Pinellas) is offering flu vaccines at its St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, Clearwater, Mid-County and Tarpon Springs locations. Go to www.PinellasHealth.com for addresses.

For more information about the flu and to find other locations to get the flu shot this year, go to www.FluFreeFlorida.com.

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.

To avoid getting sick, practice good hygiene by properly and frequently washing your hands to help prevent the flu from spreading. You can take additional steps to ward off the flu by coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow and avoiding touching your face.

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.