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Flu activity increasing in Florida, health officials say

The Florida Department of Health said flu activity has been steadily increasing over the last few weeks.
It’s one of many reasons Orlando resident Jan Ador said she got her flu shot.
“There's just so many people that end up getting things like that, that don't get their shots, and they end up coming down with the flu,” she said.
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While it's tough to known which strain will dominate this flu season, the main type circulating in Florida is Influenza A.
The Centers for Disease Control said in past seasons where that type of flu was predominant, the effectiveness of the vaccine was lower.
But health officials said people should still take steps to protect themselves.
“Everyone should get a flu shot each and every year. If you haven't got your flu shot already, go ahead and get your flu shot,” said Kent Donahue with the Florida Department of Health.
The health department said vaccines can vary in effectiveness from season to season, but are still considered the best way to prevent infection.
And while flu activity is increasing, the worst may be yet to come.
“The height of the season typically is in February,” said Donahue.
The health department is warning people to be prepared.
Watch: 5 reasons to get a flu shot
Michael Lopardi

Michael Lopardi

Michael Lopardi joined Eyewitness News as a general assignment reporter in April 2015.