First Confirmed Flu Case in Ada County

Flu season has officially arrived in Ada County. The first confirmed case of influenza was found in an Ada County woman in her thirties. While the woman is recovering and will be fine, the case serves as a reminder to the public of the importance of getting an influenza vaccination. Northern Idaho reported a flu-related death earlier this week and sporadic flu-related illnesses are being reported in several Western states.

Most people who get influenza recover after a few days, but some people may develop serious complications and even die. Every year, flu contributes to the deaths of 36,000 people in the United States and causes more then 200,000 hospitalizations.

The first cases of influenza often show up in October or November, and the flu season may extend until May. Because Idaho is seeing some early influenza activity, getting a vaccine now is very important, particularly for people at high risk for serious flu complications and their close contacts. This year, for the first time, all children over six months of age also are recommended to get the flu shot.

In addition to children up to their 19th birthday, people who should get vaccinated include:

Pregnant women.
People 50 years of age and older.
People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung diseases.
People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.
People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu

A record amount of flu vaccine is available this year, so there should be plenty of vaccine for everyone who wants to protect themselves, their families and friends. Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that infects 5-20% of people every year. Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and sometimes a cough and sore throat. Complications of the flu can lead to more serious illnesses, including death.

CDHD is offering walk-in flu clinics at its Boise office, 707 N Armstrong Place (near Emerald and Five Mile) on the following schedule:

Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wednesdays 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Fridays 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

In addition to getting vaccinated, people can protect themselves from the influenza virus and other respiratory illnesses by practicing good health hygiene habits. To avoid infection, you are urged to:

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing to prevent infecting other people. Avoid people who appear sick.
Stay home from work when sick,
Wash your hands frequently, especially after being out in the public. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth until you have washed your hands.
Get plenty of rest, drink plenty of liquids, eat nutritious foods and take part in physical activity to stay healthy.

For information about influenza visit the influenza pages on the CDHD website or call the Immunizations Department at 208-327-7450.