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February 8, 2019 First flu-related deaths confirmed in Skagit County Skagit County Public Health was notified of three flu deaths on Wednesday, Feb. 6. These are the first confirmed deaths in Skagit County for this flu season. Two of the deaths were males, and one of the three deaths was an individual younger than 65. Skagit County Public Health is working closely with local healthcare partners to monitor and respond to confirmed cases of influenza. The flu is a serious disease, particularly for those people at high risk of developing flu-related complications if they get sick. Those specifically at risk include the following:
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. Contact your healthcare provider or local pharmacy for more information about receiving a flu vaccine. People with the flu are most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins, though some may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. Symptoms of the flu include:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seasonal flu viruses can be detected year-round in the United States but are most common during the fall and winter. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons can vary, but influenza activity often begins to increase in October, peaks between December and February, and can last as late as May. If you have any further questions, please contact Skagit County Public Health at 360-416-1500 or visit the CDC’s website: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/ |
