Welcome to

A new weekly report shows 7 more Floridians died in the last week from Swine Flu, bringing the total deaths to 48. With school starting in less than 2 weeks, Mike Vasilinda tells us state health officials are planning a two-day blitz of the state to caution parents.

About one in every 10 of the 436 swine flu deaths in the United States have occurred in Florida.� The state�s Surgeon General says the number is not overly-alarming.

�The majority of the individuals have had other health conditions, absolutely,” Surgeon General Dr. Ana Viamonte Ros said.

The state�s top doctor met behind closed doors with the Governor, then the two announced a statewide blitz beginning Thursday, urging parents to be cautious.

�We just want to remind our fellow Floridians and parents to be mindful, to utilize common sense,” Governor Crist said.

�Making sure that individuals, especially if they�re sick, stay home,” Viamonte Ros said. “If their children are sick, stay home until they�re better before going back to school.�

Local health officials have been working with schools like this one across the state to establish a site for mass vaccinations if such a vaccination should become necessary.

The first batches of vaccine are expected to begin arriving in state in October. Heath officials have been busy identifying high risk populations.

�It�s mostly children between the ages of 6 months and 19 years of age, individuals above that age with chronic illnesses,” Viamonte Ros said.

In addition to H1N1 or swine flu vaccinations, at risk Floridians are also being urged to get seasonal flu shots.

State Colleges are also gearing up for the return of students and will begin education campaigns when classes begin.