TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — The Florida Department of Health says flu activity in Leon County has increased in the last few weeks and are strongly encouraging everyone to get the flu vaccine.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for the 2019-2020 season so far, there have been at least 6.4 million nationwide cases of influenza with more than 55,000 associated hospitalizations and approximately 2,900 related deaths.

“With this year’s flu season in full swing, it is critical that adults and children get the flu vaccine to protect against infection and help prevent the spread of seasonal flu to others,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. “By getting a flu shot now, you will protect yourself, as well as your family and friends.”

FDOH says the vaccine is recommended for everyone as the best defense against rapidly spreading flu virus.

“Influenza is a contagious virus that can spread rapidly in our communities and cause severe illness resulting in hospitalization or death”, said Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to avoid the flu; it reduces the spread of the virus and can also help make illnesses less severe for those who do still get sick.”

Individuals that are at most risk for getting severely ill from the flu are young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, and people aged 65 years and older.

Flu vaccines are offered at health care providers’ offices, clinics, county health departments, pharmacies, schools, college health centers and from many employers.

According to the latest data from the state health department, flu activity is reported as follows for our Florida counties:

Jackson: Mild

Gadsden: Mild

Liberty: Mild

Franklin: Mild

Leon: Moderate

Wakulla: Mild

Jefferson: Mild

Madison: No activity

Taylor: Mild

Hamilton: No activity

Suwannee: Moderate

Lafayette: Moderate