St. Cloud Medical Group encourages the community to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from contracting the flu this season. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness to those infected. In some cases, serious illness can occur which can result in hospitalization or death.

“It is crucial for everyone over 6 months of age to get vaccinated,” said Bettye Brown, ARNP-BC, Family Medicine. “The flu shot is not guaranteed to prevent the flu, but minimizes your chances of contracting the virus. If you do get the flu, the shot will help minimize the symptoms. It is especially important for young children, adults over the age of 65, and individuals who have a high risk of developing serious complications to get vaccinated.”

Individuals who should not get the vaccine are children younger than 6 months, people who have previously had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine and those with a severe egg allergy. Individuals who have a moderate-to-severe illness, with or without a fever, should wait until they are recovered.

St. Cloud Medical Group is pleased to announce the arrival of the flu vaccine to all primary care office locations. Walk-ins are welcome and same day or next day appointments are available in order to receive your flu shot. Select providers offer online appointment scheduling. Call 407-891-2900 to make an appointment or visit StCloudPhysicians.com.

“The flu vaccine cannot cause the flu and a very small percentage of people experience serious side effects from the vaccine,” said Lukasz Gierut, D.O. “Some may experience mild side effects such as soreness and redness of the injection site and low grade fever and aches. These usually happen after vaccination and are short lived.”

Besides receiving the flu vaccine there are some additional healthy habits that can help prevent you from getting sick. Wash your hands frequently throughout the day, keep your hands away from your face and stay away from sick individuals. If you are sick, stay at home and give yourself time to recover.

St. Cloud Medical Group office locations providing the flu vaccine this season include:

St. Cloud Medical Group

Primary Care
Peter Morrow, M.D.
Board-Certified in Internal Medicine
Martin O’Malley, M.D.
Board-Certified in Internal Medicine
Pawel Zelenski, M.D.
Board-Certified in Internal Medicine
Lukasz Gierut, D.O.
Board-Certified in Family Medicine
1600 Budinger Ave., Suite D
St. Cloud, FL 34769

St. Cloud Medical Group

Family Medicine East
Occupational Health
Bettye Brown, ARNP
Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner
1700 E. Irlo Bronson Mem Hwy.
St. Cloud, FL 34771