Montana records first flu death of season

State health officials are warning residents to prepare for an uptick in respiratory illnesses after Montana recorded its first influenza death of the season.

According to the Department of Public Health and Human Services, a Cascade County resident died of influenza last week. Health officials said the death is early in the season for Montana, which historically has reported deaths due to influenza beginning in November.

According to the state, the number of people ill due to respiratory viruses, including Covid-19, influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia and RSV is currently low across most of the U.S., but has increased in recent weeks.

Influenza A is the dominant strain affecting Montana, with 175 confirmed cases over the last three weeks. Influenza B accounted for 68 cases.

Flathead County Health Officer Jennifer Rankosky said three PCR tests have been sent to a state laboratory for confirmation of flu.

Symptoms of these respiratory illnesses are similar and may include a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches and low energy, health officials said. Antiviral medications are available for certain individuals with influenza or Covid-19.

Later this month, the state plans to launch a new online dashboard to keep the public informed of Covid-19, influenza and RSV activity in Montana.

According to the state health department, vaccination remains the best form of protection against serious outcomes of these diseases.

Flu vaccines are available by appointment at the Flathead County Health Department by calling 406-751-8110.

Rankosky said shipping issues led to a delay in the health department receiving its supply of flu shots. While a standard dose flu shot is currently available, the high dose will be available starting Oct. 10.

"The manufacturer shipped [the vaccines] in four days instead of two, so we had to send it back," Rankosky explained.

The county will hold a flu shot clinic Oct. 11 from 8 a.m to 6 p.m. at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. No appointment is necessary.

The Covid vaccine for ages 12 years and older is currently available in limited supply, according to the county health department. Those vaccines are by appointment only.

Montanans are encouraged to consult with a health care provider to determine their recommended vaccine options.