FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 9, 2014

Contact: Barry Inman, Epidemiologist
(321) 454-7101

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN BREVARD COUNTY REPORTS FLU DEATH

BREVARD COUNTY—The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County (DOH-Brevard) reports a 45 year old female died Friday, December 5 due to complications associated with influenza. This is the first death in Brevard County related to influenza.

"Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this woman,” said DOH-Brevard Health Director Heidar Heshmati. “I encourage anyone who has not received the influenza vaccine to get their vaccination.”

The flu vaccine is safe and continues to be the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu. It is important for those who have not been vaccinated for influenza to do as soon as possible. Most of our reported influenzas are Influenza A, which is covered in the vaccine. It is not too late to get your flu shot.

The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County recommends that all individuals six months of age and older receive the flu vaccination each year. It is especially important for pregnant women to be vaccinated due to the increased risk of complications associated with contracting the flu while pregnant. The flu vaccination is safe and will protect the mother, the unborn child and will also help protect babies during the first months after birth.

It is especially important that people who do become infected with the influenza virus stay home when they are sick and parents keep sick children at home to prevent spreading the flu. Additional steps to prevent flu include coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow, washing your hands frequently, and keeping your hands away from your face. Symptoms of the flu include headache, fever, severe cough, runny nose or body aches. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your primary care provider immediately for guidance on treatment. Early treatment with antivirals is important and can help people get better more quickly as well as help to prevent severe complications.

For additional information, contact the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County, Epidemiology section at (321) 454-7101.

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