Jefferson County records flu death

Jefferson County has recorded its first influenza death this year in a hospitalized individual, a reminder of how severe influenza can be. The person was over 65 years of age and had more than one chronic health condition. 

Fourteen Montanans have died from influenza this flu season, all adults 50 years and older. In Montana and nationwide, the highest rate of influenza hospitalizations has occurred in the 65 and over age group. Children under 5 and adults 50-64 age groups have the next highest rates of flu hospitalization. 

The influenza season for the U.S. and other northern hemisphere countries generally starts in October and continues into April or May. So far this season, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has recorded 617 influenza hospitalizations.