Brevard County Woman Dies of Influenza Complications

By  //  December 9, 2014

first death in Brevard related to influenza

The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County reported a 63-year-old woman died yesterday due to complication of influenza. This is the third death in Brevard County due to influenza. Heidar Heshmati, MD, MPH, PhD, health director is encouraging anyone who has not received the influenza vaccine to get their shot. (Space Coast medicine & Active Living image)
The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County reports a 45-year old female died Friday, Dec. 5 due to complications associated with influenza. “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this woman,” said DOH – Brevard Health Director Heidar Heshmati, pictured above. “I encourage anyone who has not received the influenza vaccine to get their vaccination.”

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County reports a 45-year old female died Friday, Dec. 5 due to complications associated with influenza.

This is the first death in Brevard County related to influenza.

BREVARD-COUNTY-HEALTH-180-1“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this woman,” said DOH – Brevard Health Director Heidar Heshmati. “I encourage anyone who has not received the influenza vaccine to get their vaccination.”

The flu vaccine is safe and continues to be the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu.

It is important for those who have not been vaccinated for influenza to do as soon as possible. Most of our reported influenzas are Influenza A, which is covered in the vaccine. It is not too late to get your flu shot.

The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County recommends that all 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.

The flu vaccination is safe and will protect the mother, the unborn child and will also help protect babies during the first months after birth.

It is especially important that people who do become infected with the influenza virus stay home when they are sick and parents keep sick children at home to prevent spreading the flu.

Health First Encourages Public To Get Flu ShotsRelated Story:
Health First Encourages Public To Get Flu Shots

Additional steps to prevent flu include coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow, washing your hands frequently, and keeping your hands away from your face.

Symptoms of the flu include headache, fever, severe cough, runny nose or body aches. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see your primary care provider immediately for guidance on treatment.

Early treatment with antivirals is important and can help people get better more quickly as well as help to prevent severe complications.