It is safe to say that 2020 is a year we will remember for the rest of our lives. COVID-19 has had a tremendous impact not only on the health of our citizens, but on how we live our daily lives. But it has also brought to the forefront the importance of prioritizing our personal health and mitigating the effect of infectious diseases on our families and communities.
That is why we kicked off the #FluVaxJax campaign, encouraging Jacksonville citizens to get their flu shots. In a normal year, the First Coast has about a 37% adult vaccination rate. With the #FluVaxJax campaign, we hope to increase the adult flu vaccination rate to 48% or more.
Why should people get their flu shot? Because flu season is upon us and the vaccine is the best way to prevent it. Vaccines are scientifically proven to decrease infection rates and minimize symptoms in those who are infected. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimate that flu vaccines prevent about 6.2 million flu-related illnesses each year.
Getting your vaccine will also contribute to our continuing fight against the coronavirus. It will prevent us from fighting two pandemics and reduce the impact on our local hospitals, freeing up more beds and resources for other patients.
Watch the News4Jax Morning Show interview with Mayor Lenny Curry
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