By Marcus Huff
Staff Writer 

Influenza numbers continue to rise across Wyoming

Washakie County Public Health has issued 720 vaccinations this flu season

 

January 25, 2018



WORLAND – According to the Wyoming Department of Health, influenza continues to be widespread across the state, going into the third week of January with 1,452 cases reported this season.

“Most people, when they fall ill, don’t go to the doctor and most test results to make it to us, so it’s really hard to get an accurate account, but it continues to grow,” said Wyoming Department of health Public Information Officer Kim Deti.

Deti also related that flu-related likely deaths have been reported, although none have been children or babies. “The state will review the death certificates after the season, before we issue a report,” noted Deti.

According to state reports for 2017-18, the state has had a total of 1,452 confirmed cases of the flu, (most being rapid H3N2) with nine of those cases in Washakie County. The highest county flu rate was found in Natrona County, with 377 cases.

For the week of Dec. 31, 2017, to Jan. 6, 2018, the state totaled 320 cases, up 200 verified cases since November 2017.

In Washakie County, Amanda Heinemeyer with the Public Health office reports that the county currently has a restock of flu vaccination, and has administered 720 vaccinations this season.

BEST ADVICE: STAY HOME

The Centers for Disease Control recommends staying home for 24 hours after the signs of flu or fever subside, and notes that those most at risk include young children, pregnant women, those over 65 and those with chronic conditions such as asthma or heart and lung disease.

The CDC recommends vaccination, followed by consistent washing with soap or anti-bacterial gels and taking any and all medications prescribed by a doctor to protect against the flu virus (antiviral drugs).

Heinemeyer, along with Deti, reminds those with symptoms to stay confined and not risk contaminating the public.

“If you are ill, you should limit your contact with other people as much as possible,” said Deti, as the most effective deterrent to spreading the infectious disease. “Just stay home.”

 
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