Flu season may come early again this year

Flu season is upon us, and while it may not be in full swing just yet, now is the time to keep healthy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu season in the U.S. peaks in January and February, but the entire season can last from October to May.  The CDC recommends everyone over six months of age get a flu shot.

So far there are no cases of the flu in Lake County, Lake County Health Department director Emily Colomeda said. Though there are some cases around the state, none are close to Lake County.

“This year we’re not expecting a harsh flu season,” she said. “But that can change at any time.”

According to the Montana Department of Health and Human Services, there were 15 influenza-related deaths in the state last year. Of those deaths, 13 happened among people over 65, one of the most vulnerable populations.

Usually Lake County doesn’t see cases of the flu until December, but last year the health department saw a peak in flu cases in November.  While it came early, Colomeda said it wasn’t more severe than any other year.

Colomeda and the health department recommend the flu vaccine to every person who can get it. While it does take a few weeks to kick in, she said the vaccine covers the patient for the whole season.

Colomeda said even if a person gets the flu after they have had the vaccine, the shot will reduce the symptoms of the illness.

She said the shot is hard to sell to people who don’t want it. She likes to tell people that any vaccine is meant to protect the entire population, not just the individual.

“It’s to protect the whole community. When the community is well, the community can thrive,” Colomeda said.

She added that while some patients say they get sick after receiving the vaccine it is not physiologically possible to get the flu from the shot.

Good health habits are crucial this time of year. Colomeda said frequent hand washing and covering coughs help prevent the spread of the flu virus.

The Lake County Health Department offers a walk-in vaccination clinic Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Flu shots for those without insurance are $25, but those with insurance should make sure their plan covers the expense before getting vaccinated.