Brevard woman who died of flu had underlying health issues

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — A 45-year-old Merritt Island woman died due to complications associated with influenza, the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County said.

The woman's death on Friday was the first in Brevard County related to influenza, though officials said she also had some underlying health issues.

The woman's name has not been released.

"She also had so many other health conditions. It was not only flu," said Florida Department of Health-Brevard County health director Heidar Heshmati. "I encourage anyone who has not received the influenza vaccine to get their vaccination."

The strain of flu that contributed to the woman's death was Type A, which is covered under this year's vaccine, along with some strains of Type B. The vaccine does provide some protection, but it's not a cure-all, and the victim had been vaccinated, officials said.

Brevard resident Shawnta Bacon had her flew shot in September when she was still pregnant with her son.

"They said it would help my baby, so I said OK," she said.

The DOH recommends that individuals six months of age and older receive the flu vaccination each year. It is especially important for pregnant women to be vaccinated due to the increased risk of complications associated with contracting the flu while pregnant, officials said.

For additional information, contact the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County, Epidemiology section at 321-454-7101.

WFTV