Florida is often associated with its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and iconic theme parks, including the beloved Walt Disney World Resort. However, the state is also no stranger to health concerns, and as flu season continues, reports of influenza are ramping up.
According to the Florida Department of Health, flu activity has reached “very high” levels in the state.
“According to the Florida Department of Health, most counties throughout the state have been seeing an increasing number of these flu cases,” Click Orlando reported. Specific outbreaks were recorded between December 29 and January 4 in Broward County (one new outbreak), Duval County (two new outbreaks), Miami-Dade County (one new outbreak), Pinellas County (one new outbreak), Seminole County (two new outbreaks), and Volusia County (one new outbreak).
The Florida Department of Health also shared its ongoing efforts to monitor the flu virus through its surveillance program:
Surveillance is conducted to detect changes in the flu virus to help determine the annual northern hemisphere vaccine composition and to prepare for potential pandemics,” Florida Health said. “Surveillance is also conducted to identify any unusually severe presentations of flu, detect outbreaks, and determine the onset, peak, and wane of the flu season to assist with prevention, particularly in high-risk populations like the very young, adults aged ≥65 years, and pregnant women.”
In addition to tracking the virus, health officials stressed the importance of vaccinations. “Annual vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and others from potentially severe complications from flu,” the report noted. “Flu shots take up to two weeks to become fully effective, so it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible to reduce your chances of getting the flu this season.”
No flu outbreaks have been reported in Orange County, home to Walt Disney World, during this period. While this is positive news, guests should remain cautious due to park crowds and high-touch surfaces increasing the risk of infection.
Flu season runs from October through May, meaning there are still several months left to take preventative measures. Inside the Magic has previously published guides on staying healthy during park visits, offering tips on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses.
Florida officials continue to recommend annual vaccinations as the most effective defense against the flu.
Do you take extra precautions to stay healthy while visiting Disney parks? Let us know in the comments below!
