What's Up WIth Flu?
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Blaine County Nurse
This week the State of Montana Health Alert Network shared information regarding recent reports of severe influenza illness. Most people affected this severely have NOT been immunized with the annual flu vaccination. The circulating influenza viruses that have been noted by the CDC are “a match” to the strains covered by this year’s seasonal vaccine.
Due to these findings, the Blaine County Health Department is again urging area residents to ensure they have received their seasonal flu “shot”. It is not too late to be protected from seasonal influenza. Typical influenza symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are less common but occasionally present. If a person does become infected with influenza, providers have the option to prescribe anti-viral medications. The CDC is urging these medications for individuals who become very will or at higher risk for complications.
The Blaine County Health Department has influenza vaccine available, and is immunizing individuals on appointment and walk-in basis (when available).If people have questions about influenza or their immunization status they can call their primary care provider or their local health jurisdiction. The Blaine County Health Department is available to assist and can be reached Monday-Friday, from 8am-5pm at 357-2345.
Sources: MT DPHHS Health Alert Network and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
