SPOKANE, Wash. — The Spokane Regional Health District just reported the first flu-related death in the county. So far, the flu has hospitalized 13 people this season.
SRHD data shows flu cases locally are slightly higher this season compared to this time last year.
“Now is the time we’re already seeing influenza A in the community,” Dr. Cindy Roberts Hollon, a pediatric nurse practitioner, said. “It’s not terrible yet, but the rates do look a little higher than the same time last year.”
Doctors with MultiCare say a fever is the symptom that separates the flu from a common cold. Children under 2 are especially at risk when it comes to the flu, which is why it’s important they are seen by a doctor quickly if they start showing symptoms.
“It is important, unlike other respiratory illnesses, to be seen quickly,” Hollon said. “Particularly in our young kids who might benefit from something like Tamiflu so they don’t get really sick.”
MultiCare says there are a lot of misconceptions about the flu vaccine, especially around how long it takes before you’re immunized.
“The flu shot does not cause influenza,” Dr. Hollon said. “It is true that if you’re getting a flu shot in flu season, it takes two weeks from your immunizations to when you get immunity.”
Hollon says getting your flu shot will give you at least some protection, even if it is not a great match for this year’s strain of the flu.
Even if you do get the flu, doctors say the vaccine will help reduce some of your symptoms.
MultiCare says flu season is starting around the typical time this year, but the higher rates of people getting sick are concerning.
Doctors recommend getting your flu shot before Halloween to make sure you’re immune through the spring.
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