News update

Area health departments out of flu vaccine

Health departments in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties have run out of flu vaccine.

More is expected to arrive from the state next week, but supplies will be very distributed to each county based on size. Pinellas and Hillsborough each will get 150 doses; Pasco, Citrus and Hernando will get 80. The state is advising counties to administer the vaccine to individuals at high risk for flu complications.

Most people get flu shots other than at the health departments.

The Pinellas health department ran out Thursday after administering 9,500 shots.

The state Department of Health learned today it will receive 4,750 more doses from the federal government, which bought an extra 100,000 doses, said state health spokeswoman Lindsay Hodges.

Whether people have had a flu shot or not, Gill advised following common-sense steps to keep from spreading respiratory infection: wash your hands, try to avoid touching your face, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue if you sneeze or cough, and stay home if you are sick.

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