Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Every flu season is different, and influenza infection can affect people differently, which is why the City of Tamarac in conjunction with University Hospital is offering residents free flu shots for one day only.
Even healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to others. The Center for Disease Control reported that over a period of 31 seasons between 1976 and 2007, estimates of flu-associated deaths in the United States range from a low of about 3,000 to a high of about 49,000 people.
During a regular flu season, about 90 percent of deaths occur in people 65 years and older. “Flu season” in the United States can begin as early as October and last as late as May.
Had a vaccination last year? It’s important to have a flu vaccine every year. First, the body’s immune response from vaccination declines over time, so an annual vaccine is needed for optimal protection. Second, because flu viruses are constantly changing, the formulation of the flu vaccine is reviewed each year and sometimes updated to keep up with changing flu viruses.
For the best protection, everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated annually.
Free flu shots are given on a first-come first-serve basis on Thursday, October 30, at University Hospital’s Physical Therapy Room at 7201 N. University Drive Tamarac, FL. To make an appointment call 954-597-3642. Appointments begin at 8:30 a.m.
