The other sign of winter: Flu hitting hard this year

The flu has hit hard this year with 3,318 cases and 369 hospitalizations reported so far across Montana. Six deaths have also been reported, with adults over age of 65 hit the hardest. In February, flu season is still going strong, with 781 cases reported last week, according to the Montana Department of Health and Human Services.

Mineral County had 14 cases reported as of Jan. 28, compared to Sanders County with 18 cases, Lake County had 45, and Beaverhead County has been hit the hardest with 88 cases so far this year. The Mineral County Health Department reported that the number of county cases are sharping increasing as the area continues to get pounded with harsh weather conditions.

In 2014 there were a total of 6,191 cases across Montana, with 608 hospitalizations and 24 deaths. In 2015, there was a slight decrease with 4,734 cases, 433 hospitalizations, but an increase of 33 deaths. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) people should wash hands frequently with soap to help guard against the flu and to prevent spreading germs. Also, people should stay home if sickness strikes in order to get well and prevent others from catching the flu bug. It is also wise to keep the medicine cabinet stocked with essentials, from tissues to medicines that can treat a variety of symptoms. Such as Robitussin 12 Hour Cough Relief, Advil Cold and Sinus, Children’s Dimetapp, Children’s Robitussin and Children’s Advil, according to the CDC.

They also recommend everyone six months of age and older get a flu vaccine every season. This is especially important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza. Different flu vaccines are approved for use in different groups of people where factors such as a person’s age, health, and allergies are taken into consideration.

In October, the Mineral County Health Department holds flu shot clinics as the season for influenza begins. Last year, mother of three Bridgette Kovalsky, brought her troop in for their annual shots. She said they get vaccinated every year and seldom get the flu. Last year, the shots were $32 and they are usually covered through health insurance and Medicaid.

If the flu does hit, people can infect other from one day before getting sick to five to seven days after they become ill. Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Some people with the flu may not have a fever.

If you or someone around you gets sick, the CDC recommends they get plenty of rest and fluids. Also, stay home or keep children home at least 24 hours after their fever is gone. A fever is defined as 100 degrees or higher.