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February 05 , 2008

Health officials are now reporting widespread flu-like activity in Idaho.

Health officials are now reporting widespread flu-like activity in Idaho. That means it’s a good time for those who haven’t yet received an influenza vaccine to call their health care provider or local health district and schedule an appointment to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“We’re starting to see a rise in influenza activity in all corners of the state,” says Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Deputy State Epidemiologist, Dr. Leslie Tengelsen. “We don’t know how severe this flu season will be, but we believe it hasn’t peaked yet.  If you haven’t received an influenza vaccine, don’t wait any longer.”

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. Flu activity can occur as late as May so getting a vaccine now may still offer protection for the duration of the season. Getting a vaccine is very important, particularly for people at high risk for serious flu complications and their close contacts. People at high risk include infants, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease and people 65 and older.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that infects 5-20% of people every year. Symptoms include fever, headache and fatigue. Complications of the flu can lead to more serious illnesses, including death. Every year, individuals die from flu-related illnesses and many more are hospitalized in Idaho.

One of the most serious flu-related complications is bacterial pneumonia, due to the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, another vaccine-preventable respiratory illness. Persons over the age of 65 and those with certain chronic illnesses or weakened immune system are at a high risk of serious bacterial pneumonia and should receive a pneumonia shot at least once. Fortunately, the pneumonia shot can be given at the same time as the flu shot. Talk to your healthcare provider about what shots are right for you.

The influenza virus and other respiratory illnesses usually spread person-to-person through coughing and sneezing. People 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.

Healthcare providers or local public health districts are good sources for receiving the flu or pneumonia vaccines. Please see your healthcare provider to determine if you should receive the pneumonia vaccination.

For information about influenza and how to stay healthy, please visit the CDC website. For information about bacterial pneumonia, please visit the Streptococcus pneumoniae disease Info sheet at the CDC website.