Flu Cases On The Rise Throughout The State

Nurse places bandage on female patient

Most of Florida's 67 counties are showing a hike in flu-like illnesses.

"We are getting into the point in the flu season where you do see increases."

Alex Shaw with the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County.

"Palm Beach is reporting an increase in influenza activity, along with 47 other counties, however when you compare those groups, a majority of them are saying 'Mild' flu activity. We're slightly higher, in the 'Moderate' category, along with seven other counties."

As for the situation in schools that we reported on this week.

"We had five outbreaks in public schools since October and a total of eight since the beginning of the school year and that's about the same as it relates to last year."

Alex urges parents to remind their kids to wash their hands and look for out for symptoms.

You don't necessarily need to have a fever to get the flu, but you have the general body aches and pains, the coughing and discomfort, fatigue and weakness that can last up to two to three weeks."

He also recommends the flu shot. There's a good chance it won't cost you out of pocket.

"Generally if you have insurance, there's no copay. So we encourage people to go to see your doctor. You can go to a pharmacy. You can go to a clinic, anywhere that takes your insurance."

He says anyone without insurance can contact the health department, to make an appointment.

Flu season runs through May.

Photo: Getty Images


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content