First local cases of influenza confirmed

 The Flathead City-County Health Department has confirmed through lab tests three cases of seasonal flu in the county as of Wednesday.

They are the first flu confirmations this season. All three involved adults under 50.

According to a press release, flu activity remains sporadic in Montana. This means that there are isolated cases of lab-confirmed influenza around the state.

Symptoms of the flu are fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. Children often also have nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

People usually become ill one to three days after acquiring the virus. Complications may include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and a worsening of other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma and congestive heart failure.

Health officials recommend a flu vaccination as the best way to avoid the illness. To avoid acquiring or spreading the virus, people should cover coughs, wash hands frequently and stay home when ill.

Health-care providers, pharmacies and the health department have flu immunizations available. For more information, call the department at 751-8110 or check the website www.flatheadhealth.org.