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Health experts say heat is not detering people from getting the flu shot after last year's scare

Posted at 7:45 PM, Oct 02, 2018
and last updated 2018-10-02 20:08:02-04

BRANDON, FLA — Tara Stryker may be busy, but there's one thing she won't put off any longer.

“Its fall, I need to get my flu shot," sad Stryker.

It certainly may not feel like it. But while the Bay area is seeing higher than ever temperatures, many places are seeing larger than ever crowds getting their flu shot this year.

And many health experts said it's directly linked to a devastating flu season last year.

Dr. Jill Hechtman with Brandon Regional Hospital can't stress getting the flu shot enough.

“Now! Now! Now!  Get your flu vaccine," said Dr. Jill Hechtman.

Dr. Jill Hechtman with Brandon Regional hospital is so empathic about the vaccine. She got her flu shot while talking to us.

“I am willing to show that I am going to get it,  because I want you to get it. Practice what you preach," said Dr. Hechtman.

Dr. Hechtman said government data proves the importance.

172 children, the most since the swine flu, died last year.

Already this year in Florida, there are six pediatric deaths linked to influenza.

In the majority of cases, patients did not get the flu shot.

“So you're going to see a big push this year to try and get people vaccinated, " said Dr. Hechtman.

But Action News also learned some surprising information.

Some vendors are limiting supplies so unlike last year, there's not a shortage of the vaccine.

Some Hillsborough County schools had to cancel vaccinations for a few days for that very reason.

“That does surprise me," said Dr. Hechtman.

But, Dr. Hechtman said it should not deter you. You may have to hit a few places, but it could also pay off.

“Publix this year is giving a $10 card for people who get their flu shot," said Dr. Hechtman.

That's just one of many places trying to get people in the door.