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Vaccine Before Halloween

By Arielle Myers

September 14, 2018

Vaccine Before Halloween Ad

The Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier) encourages everyone to “Vaccine Before Halloween”. The flu is a contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Most people usually recover from flu symptoms in less than two weeks; however, some individuals develop life-threatening flu complications that can result in hospitalization or death. According to the CDC, individuals at a higher risk include children younger than 5, adults 65 or older, pregnant women, people with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or lung disease, and nursing home residents.

The flu vaccine is the best way to reduce the risk of becoming infected with the flu and prevent flu complications. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to provide protection against the flu. Receiving the vaccine ensures protection for yourself, your family, and your community.  

In addition to the flu vaccine, DOH-Collier recommends the following steps to avoid catching or spreading the flu:

  • “Sneeze like a Vampire” by coughing or sneezing into a tissue, your shirt sleeve or elbow-not your hands.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are OK to use, but soap and water is best.
  • Try not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are spread this way.