According to the Cascade City-County Health Department, 120 influenza cases have been reported so far this flu season.
They are still waiting for the results of rapid influenza testing that was performed last week. The testing could make the total cases go up 20 to 40 cases or more.
CCHD officials said symptoms vary by the strain of influenza virus, but a sore throat can be a symptom.
They’re reminding people to wash hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home if you’re sick.
CCHD added the best line of defense against the flu is the flu shot.
For more information, visit the CCHD’s website.
(January 26, 2019) Influenza activity increased dramatically in the past week and is now considered widespread in Montana.
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services reported 332 new cases in the third week of 2019.
Cascade County reported 49 new cases while Gallatin County led with 64 new cases.
Influenza is a respiratory illness and symptoms include headaches, fever, body aches, coughing and a sore throat.
“We really want people to be immunized,” said Kim Bailey, communicable disease program manager and a registered nurse at RiverStone Health. “Certainly if people have signs or symptoms and they become pretty ill, then they should go into their provider and they should go early. Our message is always prevention, so get your flu shot, cover your cough, stay home if you’re sick, wash your hands.”
In Montana, there have been 978 cases of the flu in 44 counties, with 58 hospitalizations and two deaths, including one child.
To review the full report, click here.
