The 2021-22 flu season is here. Last year, Montana had no diagnosed flu. Those who follow flu trends are concerned we will see increased flu activity this year. Experts suspect it is possible that the very low number of flu cases last year may mean there are fewer people with immunity to the strains circulating this year. This, combined with relaxed prevention measures for COVID, the disease caused by the coronavirus, could result in a challenging 2021-22 flu season. Currently, there have been 11 confirmed influenza cases in Montana. One of the 11 diagnosed cases is a Jefferson County resident.
Influenza, also known as the “flu”, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. Influenza can cause mild to severe symptoms. Some of the symptoms of flu overlap with that of COVID, including fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat and fatigue. Because some of the symptoms of influenza, COVID and other respiratory illnesses are similar, testing is needed to confirm a diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Influenza often has a sudden onset and can be treated by antiviral medications if taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
Both influenza and COVID are respiratory viruses, and prevention measures such as washing your hands frequently, wearing a mask in public, practicing physical distancing and getting vaccinated with both COVID and flu vaccines can guard against both illnesses. The flu vaccine will not protect against COVID. All flu vaccines this year are quadrivalent and provide protection for four strains of influenza.
