Spike in Idaho flu deaths prompts warning

Sixteen people in Idaho have died from influenza as of Jan. 22, up from three deaths on Jan. 8. The spike in fatal cases has prompted state health officials to urge residents to take measures to protect themselves from flu. In North Idaho, flu cases have hit epidemic levels, with four deaths reported in the five northern counties, according to the Panhandle Health District. Last week more than one in five lab tests taken were positive for influenza Type A, the health agency said. Most of the deaths in Idaho are people over age 80, the state Department of Health and Welfare said today. “Over the past five years there has been an average of 20 influenza-related deaths reported per season,” Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, deputy state epidemiologist, said in a news release. “Since this flu season is likely far from over, people need to take measures to protect themselves to reduce their chances of illness.” Because the flu can be particularly severe for children and those over 65, health officials recommend that everyone who hasn’t yet been vaccinated visit a drop-in clinic or pharmacy, or call their healthcare provider and schedule an appointment for vaccination as soon as possible. “Although there is an incomplete match to the vaccine this season, the flu vaccine is still the best protection for you and your family,” Tengelsen said. “There is plenty of vaccine still available, so if you have not been vaccinated, please don’t wait any longer.” The most common flu virus subtype circulating this season is H3N2. In previous seasons when H3N2 was the most common subtype, there were more severe illnesses and an increased numbers of deaths. For anyone who contracts the flu, rapid treatment with antiviral medications is an especially important second line of defense for people at risk of complications, she said. Other measures people are urged to take to protect themselves include: •Washing your hands frequently with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. •Covering your coughs and sneezes. •Staying home when sick. •Avoiding others who appear to be sick. Severe symptoms of the flu that should prompt an immediate healthcare evaluation by a doctor or at an emergency room or urgent care center include: •Fever above 100 degrees •Fast breathing or trouble breathing •Bluish or gray skin color •Pain or pressure in the chest or stomach area •Sudden dizziness •Confusion •Dehydration, not urinating enough or no tears when crying •Severe or persistent vomiting •Being very sleepy or confused, or not waking up or interacting •Being so irritable that nothing makes the child feel better •Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and more severe cough More information about influenza in Idaho is available at the state’s flu website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.