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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Flu kills 14 in region; precautions urged

From Staff Reports

The flu has put 249 people into Spokane hospitals and is blamed for 10 deaths this season – including four in the past week.

The numbers are higher than last year, as the virus has been toughest on people older than 60 – especially those in their 80s, according to data from the Spokane Regional Health District.

In North Idaho four people have died from influenza, prompting state health officials to urge residents to take measures to protect themselves from the virus.

Most of the deaths in Idaho are people over age 80, the state Department of Health and Welfare said Monday.

“Over the past five years there has been an average of 20 influenza-related deaths reported per season,” Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, deputy state epidemiologist, said in a news release. “Since this flu season is likely far from over, people need to take measures to protect themselves to reduce their chances of illness.”

Because the flu can be particularly severe for children and those over 65, health officials recommend that everyone who hasn’t been vaccinated visit a drop-in clinic or pharmacy, or call their health care provider and schedule an appointment for vaccination as soon as possible.

“Although there is an incomplete match to the vaccine this season, the flu vaccine is still the best protection for you and your family,” Tengelsen said. “There is plenty of vaccine still available, so if you have not been vaccinated, please don’t wait any longer.”

The most common flu virus subtype circulating this season is H3N2. In previous seasons when H3N2 was the most common subtype, there were more severe illnesses and an increased number of deaths.

For anyone who contracts the flu, rapid treatment with antiviral medications is an especially important second line of defense for people at risk of complications.

Other measures people are urged to take to protect themselves include:

•Washing your hands frequently with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

•Covering your coughs and sneezes.

•Staying home when sick.

•Avoiding others who appear to be sick.