Flu season has arrived

Flu season is officially here. Lincoln County has had 19 confirmed cases of influenza. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness. The flu can be mild to severe with symptoms of all or some of the following: fever/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, however, this is more common in children than adults. 

Influenza can be serious. Last season the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services recorded 608 hospitalizations and 24 deaths related to influenza.

The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. It is not too late to get the vaccine. 

Influenza vaccination is very safe and is recommended for everyone older than six months. The composition of the flu vaccine is reviewed each year and updated to protect against the flu viruses that research indicates will be the most common during the upcoming season. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctor visits, missed work or school as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.

Other precautions to prevent flu include washing your hands often with soap and water, avoid close contact with sick people and covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and stay home when you are ill.

For more information about the flu or flu vaccines please call Lincoln County Public Health at (406) 283-2465.