Flu Spreads Across Some Southern States
MIAMI - (CBS4) - Flu season is spreading across the nation, especially in southern states, according to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control.
Fortunately, Florida isn't on the list yet. But beware, neighboring states including Georgia are.
The report says three other Southern states -- Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia as well as New York have reported a surge in people suffering from the flu.
In Miami-Dade County, there's a slight increase in influenza-like illness over 2008, but less than 2009 "because it was a pandemic year because of the H1N1,"said Olga Connor, Miami-Dade County Health Department Spokeswoman.
Those who got vaccinated with this season's flu vaccine may be in the clear. The report states that about 120 virus samples are well-matched to this season's flu vaccine.
An estimated 23,600 flu-related deaths occur annually, health officials report.
Walgreens has teamed up with the CDC to give free vaccines of the flu.
Anyone who would like to obtain a free voucher for the vaccine should call the Miami-Dade Health Department during office hours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 305-324-2400.
