Flu virus remains active in Butte-Silver Bow County – The Montana Standard

February began with influenza remaining a public health concern in Butte-Silver Bow County.

We are still seeing an increase in activity, said Karen Maloughney, BSN, RN, health officer for the Butte-Silver Bow Health Department.

Karen Maloughney, BSN, RN, health officer for Butte-Silver Bow County.

If have people have not gotten their influenza vaccine, they should, she said. If exposed to the influenza virus, a vaccinated individual generally has less severe symptoms and will usually avoid hospitalization.

Maloughney said vaccinated people with influenza can still spread the illness to others, so they should avoid the public if symptomatic.

In the U.S., flu season usually occurs in the fall and winter. Although influenza viruses spread year-round, most of the time flu activity peaksbetween December and February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Maloughney said COVID-19 and RSV are also circulating, and both have vaccines available.

They can be received in conjunction with the influenza vaccine if eligible, Maloughney said.Respiratory illnesses arent something to take lightly and prevention is key.

Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiration virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The CDC reports that most people recover from RSV in a week or two, but the virus can be serious. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. If you are age 60 or older, a vaccine is available to protect you from severe RSV.

Maloughney said the health department has heard anecdotal reports of illnesses circulating that cause nausea and vomiting.

The best defense with this type of illness is good, thorough hand washing with soap and water, she said.Also, staying home for two days after symptoms have resolved will help stop the spread of these types of illnesses.

Maloughney encouraged people to make sure that vaccinations for themselves and their children are up to date.

If people have questions about their vaccination record or to make an appointment to get caught up, they can call 406-497-5020, she said.

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Flu virus remains active in Butte-Silver Bow County - The Montana Standard