BILLINGS — Two people have died from the flu in Yellowstone County, marking the first flu death in the county this season.
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and Riverstone Health confirmed the deaths. One was a 70-year-old man and the other was a 90-year-old woman. Both died in October. Neither had received a flu shot this season.
The flu is currently spreading throughout the county. Since the respiratory illness season began Oct. 4, the county has recorded 119 cases. 15 people were hospitalized.
Montana is currently reporting 76 hospitalizations and 3 deaths.
According to the CDCMontana currently has a “very low” level of respiratory illness. The agency also reports that Montana currently has an “increasing” number of flu and COVID-19 cases.
Health officials say the flu should never be taken lightly. They say prevention is essential to protect the most vulnerable, including the elderly, young children, pregnant people and people with health problems.
The flu is spread by coughing and sneezing. Symptoms may include high fever, chills, headache, sore throat, and body aches. It may take one to four days for symptoms to appear.
Health officials say the flu vaccine is the best way to protect you and your family. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at local clinics, doctors’ offices and pharmacies across the state.
You can also help stop the spread by washing your hands often, covering your coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you are sick.
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Gn Health
