Idaho reports man in Gooding County as state’s first flu-related death this season
A man older than 65 from Gooding County became Idaho’s first influenza-related death of the season, health officials reported Monday.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and the South Central Public Health District are urging anyone older than six months to get their flu shots this year — especially as COVID-19 continues to spread and families celebrate the holidays together.
“The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is reminding residents that flu is here, and it can be very serious,” Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, Idaho influenza surveillance coordinator, said in a news release. “Influenza activity had been detected in Idaho and across the country ahead of the holiday season.”
Typically, about 5% to 20% of the U.S. population gets the flu each season. Idaho over the past several years has reported an average of 34 flu-related deaths each season. Most are among adults older than 65, according to Health and Welfare.
People who get the flu typically recover, but those with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, older adults and young children are more vulnerable to complications from the flu.
“Older adults, young children, family in long-term care facilities — they are all at higher risk and could be exposed to this disease as people gather for the holidays,” said Tanis Maxwell, South Central Public Health District epidemiologist.
Flu symptoms range from a fever, cough and sore throat to runny nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Many of the symptoms are similar to those reported among people who test positive for COVID-19.
Last season, flu activity was “unusually low,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC attributed the decline to COVID-19 mitigation measures, including wearing masks, distancing from others and staying home.
In October, public health leaders told the Idaho Statesman they were worried about the potential for an influx of flu cases this season, which could put further strain on hospitals and health care workers who are continuing to deal with the spread of COVID-19.
This story was originally published December 27, 2021 at 1:08 PM with the headline "Idaho reports man in Gooding County as state’s first flu-related death this season."
