2 flu cases confirmed in Flathead

Flathead County health officials have confirmed the first cases of the seasonal flu in the state.

Two cases of type A influenza were reported to the Flathead City-County Health Department recently, the department stated in a press release Friday. One of those cases involved a hospitalization.

Nationally, the type A (H3N2) strain is most prevalent in recent weeks, according to CDC data. The number of flu cases nationally began trending upward in early September.

Health officials are encouraging residents to consider getting a seasonal flu shot with the arrival of the virus.

“Influenza is a serious illness because it can spread quickly and can cause severe outcomes in the high-risk population,” said Jillian Boll, Community Health Services Supervisor. “This is why we encourage everyone to get their flu vaccination to protect yourself and others.  If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to get vaccinated.”

The Flathead City-County Health Department is hosting its annual influenza clinic on Wednesday, Oct. 5 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Face coverings are required at the clinic for all individuals 5 and older.  Most insurance plans, Medicaid and Medicare will be accepted. No child will be refused vaccine due to inability to pay. For more information call 751-8110.

Health officials note that it takes up to two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu.

Vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza, including:

• People 65 years and older

• Children younger than 5, but especially younger than 2 years old

• People with certain chronic health conditions like asthma and COPD, diabetes (both type 1 and 2), heart disease, neurological conditions, and certain other health conditions

• Pregnant women


Symptoms of the flu may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, headaches, and extreme tiredness. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, although this is more common in children. 

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.