TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis calls on state organizations and companies to take immediate action to fight the flu epidemic. Recent reports state there have already been more than 20 pediatric deaths associated with the flu, with two of those deaths occurring right here in Florida. In an open letter, CFO Patronis encourages Department of Financial Services (DFS) offices, Florida Health Insurance Companies and HMOs, Florida Fire Marshals and Fire Departments, Florida State Chartered Banks and Credit Unions, Florida Licensed Insurance Agents, and Florida Healthy Kids to help Florida fight the flu epidemic. Click here for a copy of the letter.

“The flu epidemic has been deadly and everyone has the responsibility to ensure Floridians stay healthy,” said CFO Jimmy Patronis. “I’ve been an ardent fighter for preventative medicine, and the flu vaccine is a good way to protect your health and the health of others.”  

CFO Patronis will hold a media availability today, January 18 at Walgreens located at 1202 N. Magnolia Drive in Tallahassee at 11:30 a.m., to remind Floridians that it’s not too late to get their flu vaccine. The CFO will be receiving the flu shot during the media availability.