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17 staff members at Duval County hospital fall ill with influenza-like illness, per health official

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Seventeen employees at a local hospital fall ill with the an influenza-like illness.

Right now, the Florida Department of Health is investigating the outbreak.

Action News Jax Courtney Cole checks with five local hospitals to try and pinpoint where the outbreak happened.

According to the Florida Flu Review, released weekly by the Department of Health, flu activity has peaked for the season, but doesn't mean influenza season is over just yet.

The Department of Health said outbreaks continue to be reported.

The Florida Flu Review, said 17 staff members from a Duval County hospital got sick due to an influenza-like illness.

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One of the employees was so sick, they had to be hospitalized.

Action News Jax Courtney Cole worked Wednesday afternoon and evening to figure out which local hospital has the affected employees.

She made six calls and sent five emails to five local hospitals trying to get answers.

UF Health told Action News Jax ‘Infection Control’ hasn't seen anything out of the ordinary -- but right now they're checking on this for us.

Memorial Hospital said they don't have any flu issues, but also wouldn't be able to tell us about specific patients— for confidentiality reasons.

Mayo Clinic said they have no way of knowing which of their staff members had the flu, because employees don't have to release that information.

Baptist Health sent the following statement to Action News Jax:

"There has not been a flu outbreak among staff at Baptist Health. As always, heightened awareness for flu is a priority for us as we provide continuous education and promotion of hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette."

Even though it's getting warmer outside, it's not too late to get your flu shot.

Washing your hands often and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth can also help prevent the spreading of influenza and other respiratory viruses.
As we learn more—we'll keep you updated on all platforms here at Action News Jax.

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