Flu Season Hits Jefferson County

The influenza season is upon us. According to Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS), influenza is widespread right now in Montana and most of the US. Over 300 Montanans have been hospitalized this flu season and 18 deaths have been reported, most have been 65 or older. Locally, flu activity has been reported in the north, central and south sections of the county. Jefferson County has had 4 individuals hospitalized with the flu, one of whom has died.

Nearly 2000 people have tested positive for flu since the start of the season in October, but almost a quarter of them (477) were reported to DPHHS last week.

While a flu vaccination is often said to be our best defense against the highly contagious illness, additional measures may help protect us from severe flu and slow the spread during the season.

• Wash our hands; it’s a basic hygiene measure that is protective to you and others.

• Cover our coughs and sneezes; if we don’t, we can propel those illness-causing bugs around three feet away.

• Stay home when we are ill; this allows the body to rest and heal, and limits contact with others in the process. If neighbors offer to run errands for you, let them.

• Seek medical attention early; you may be able to limit complications such as pneumonia.

• Finally, exercise, get adequate sleep and fluids, and eat well; all of these have been shown to positively impact our immune system and our ability to fight and recover from illness.

Certain people are at higher risk for severe complications of the flu. These include children younger than 5 years, especially those with asthma; people 65 years and older; pregnant women; adults with chronic medical conditions such as heart and lung conditions, endocrine (diabetes) or metabolic disorders, and a body mass index (BMI) of greater than 30 (obesity).

If you have a high risk condition and experience flu symptoms, seek medical attention early. There are effective medications to treat the flu, but they work best when started within the first few days of illness. Even if you have no high risk condition, the flu can hit anyone hard. Please take it seriously if you feel you or someone in your care has the flu. Consult with your healthcare provider if you are concerned. Immunizations may be scheduled at Boulder, Clancy or Whitehall offices by calling the Jefferson County Health Department @ 225-4007.