As flu season approaches, health experts are urging South Floridians to get vaccinated early, stressing the importance of annual flu shots to help prevent serious complications.
Flu Shot Friday, a campaign in partnership with Walgreens, is offering free flu vaccines throughout the day at all Walgreens locations across South Florida.
Pharmacists, doctors, and public health officials are reminding the public that flu vaccines are crucial in reducing the risk of illnesses that could lead to hospitalizations.
Dr. Aneesa Khan, a Doctor of Pharmacy at Walgreens, spoke to Local 10 about the severe consequences of skipping the flu shot.
“It’s super important because the complications of flu can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and other serious infections that may require hospitalization,” said Khan. “You want to avoid that.’
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older get a flu shot each year. Flu viruses are most active in the fall and winter months, and it takes about two weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection. That’s why experts like Khan urge people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Flu Season: Why vaccination matters
Last year’s flu season resulted in at least 35 million illnesses, with millions seeking medical care.
Despite the annual spread of the virus, the flu vaccine has been proven to be a safe and effective tool in preventing the worst outcomes.
Vaccines have been around for over 50 years and have a strong safety record, helping to reduce the number of medical visits, hospitalizations, and deaths each year.
As a part of Flu Shot Friday, Local 10′s Kristi Krueger received her flu shot live on air, demonstrating just how quick and easy the process is.
For South Floridians like Bonnie Blitz, getting a flu shot is not just about personal protection but also about keeping her family safe.
“I feel it’s a very important thing to get every year, not only to protect myself but my family as well,” said Blitz, a nurse who also received her flu shot on Friday. “As a nurse, I know the importance of getting vaccines.”
The flu shot also helps protect communities by reducing the spread of the virus.
“Not only are you vaccinating yourself, you’re helping protect your family, coworkers and loved ones,” said Khan. “If you stay protected and don’t get sick, it’s less likely you’ll spread the virus to others.”
Free Flu Shots Across South Florida
Walgreens is making it easy for South Floridians to get vaccinated.
As part of the Flu Shot Friday campaign, all Walgreens locations across South Florida are offering free flu shots throughout the day. The effort aims to make the vaccine accessible to everyone, regardless of insurance status.
Flu Shot Friday runs all day today at Walgreens stores across South Florida.
Flu vaccines are available at no cost, and pharmacists are on hand to answer any questions about the process. For more information, residents can contact their local Walgreens pharmacy.