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Spike In Flu Cases Affects Idaho's Older Residents

flu, flu shot, sickness
US Army Corps Of Engineers
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu is particularly widespread and acute in the Gem State this year. Ten people over the age of 50 have died from the flu so far this season in Idaho.

Boise’s Saint Alphonsus Medical Center reports seeing a spike in instances of flu this January compared to the same month last year. A spokesperson tells the Statesman the hospital has seen a 300 percent increase in cases of the illness.

Health professionals say it’s not too late to get vaccinated if you haven’t already had a flu shot. They also advise adhering to a good hand washing regimen and regularly sanitizing surfaces that could be filled with germs.

Despite the reported rise in cases, a representative with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare says this flu season appears to be fairly typical. Twenty-six people in Idaho died from the flu last year.

For more local news, follow the KBSX newsroom on Twitter @KBSX915

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