Flu season is officially underway in Flathead County.
Two cases of influenza A have been confirmed as of Dec. 7, the Flathead City-County Health Department said. County officials are encouraging residents to get vaccinated and take steps to avoid spreading the illness.
A year ago, Flathead County experienced a sudden outbreak, leading hospital officials to restrict visitation at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Over 190 cases of the flu were reported in the county a year ago. Seven people were hospitalized with severe illness.
Influenza vaccination is the best way to prevent getting the flu, but it takes up to two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu, health officials say.
Vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza, including seniors, young children and people with chronic health conditions.
The symptoms include a fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose.
People usually become ill one to three days after being infected. Complications can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and a worsening of other chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, and congestive heart failure.
Other ways to prevent transmitting flu include, covering a cough, frequent handwashing, and staying home when you are ill. Influenza virus usually spreads person to person by coughing or sneezing. It is also possible to become infected by touching something with flu virus on it, and then touching your mouth or nose. Most adults are infectious one day before they have symptoms.
For any additional information visit www.flatheadhealth.org.