State health officials have reported another five flu deaths, bringing the total to 13 – the most deadly start to the flu season in recent history.
January is a peak time for flu and health officials say they haven’t seen so many deaths related to the virus for nearly a decade during this same time period.
Last season was particularly deadly. 72 people died from flu-related illnesses in the Gem State – far more than the average of 23 deaths each year since 2009.
The respiratory illness infects 5 to 20 percent of the population every year marked by fever, headaches, fatigue and sometimes a cough and sore throat.
Officials are encouraging Idahoans over the age of six months to get the flu vaccine unless they have medical reasons to avoid it.
You can help prevent catching or spreading the flu by covering your mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing, washing your hands frequently and staying home while sick.
Copyright 2018 Boise State Public Radio
