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Flu claims first North Idaho victim |
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October 3, 2017 |
Panhandle Health District (PHD) reported
Idaho’s first influenza-related death for the
2017-2018 flu season. A north Idaho man over the
age of 50 died due to complications from an
influenza infection. This could be an indication
of an early flu season.
“We are seeing sporadic influenza activity in
some northern Idaho counties,” said Jeff Lee,
PHD Staff Epidemiologist. “I strongly encourage
people to get their influenza vaccination now,
so there is time to develop immunity before
getting exposed to the flu virus.”
Vaccination is recommended for everyone age six
months and older. It is the best way to keep
yourself healthy and stop the influenza virus
from spreading to others. Influenza can be
severe and even deadly for vulnerable
populations including infants, pregnant women,
people with chronic medical conditions and the
elderly.
There were 72 flu-related deaths in Idaho during
the 2016-17 flu season. Twenty of those occurred
in Panhandle Health District counties.
PHD also recommends protecting yourself by
taking the following measures:
* Wash hands with soap frequently and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers,
especially after you cough, sneeze or touch your
face.
* Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and dispose of the tissue
immediately. If a tissue is not available, cough
or sneeze into your inner elbow. Droplets from a
sneeze can travel up to six feet.
* Stay home when sick and do not return to work until 24 hours after a
fever is gone.
Flu activity is expected to increase in the
coming weeks and months. Symptoms include fever,
headache, fatigue, a cough, sore throat or other
respiratory issues. If you are exhibiting any of
these symptoms, you are encouraged to contact
your primary care provider.
Flu vaccinations are currently offered at PHD
clinics, physician offices, and many pharmacies
and grocery stores. |
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