Lee County, FL—The City of Fort Myers will issue a proclamation today in partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Lee County urging people to get their flu vaccine before Halloween.

“DOH-Lee is already receiving reports of flu in local hospitals and care centers,” said DOH-Lee’s Administrator, Robert Palussek. “Getting your vaccine now will give you the maximum amount of protection when you need it most.”

Palussek will greet City Council representatives during tonight’s meeting with a message of appreciation for the public recognition of the important role everyone plays in maintaining health during flu season. The 4:30 p.m. meeting is held at Council Chambers, 2200 Second St., Fort Myers.

Flu vaccine protects the person who is immunized and other people who cannot defend themselves from influenza, including those who can’t get the vaccine—children younger than 6 months old and people too ill to get the vaccine. People who are ill should get their vaccine as soon as they are well. People with heart disease, cancer and asthma are more vulnerable than others, so getting a flu vaccine can help them also.

It is especially important for pregnant women to be vaccinated due to the increased risk of complications associated with contracting the flu while pregnant. The flu vaccination is safe and will protect the mother and the unborn child. It will also help protect babies during their first few months after birth.

Flu vaccines available at the DOH-Lee immunizations clinic, 3920 Michigan Avenue, Fort Myers, include shots for children 6 months old through 18 years old and FluMist for children 2-18 years old for free. A limited number of high dose flu vaccines are available at $50 per dose for people 65 years old and up. Flu vaccine is expected to be available beginning October 22, 2014 at $30 per dose for adults 19-64 years old. The pneumonia vaccine is also available for a fee for adults. All vaccines are preservative free.

Flu vaccines are also available at most local pharmacies and primary care offices.

For more information call 239-332-9501 or go to www.leechd.com.