North Idaho woman first in state to die from flu this season

COEUR d'ALENE — A North Idaho woman over the age of 60 has become the first resident in the state to die due to the flu this season.

"We cannot provide the exact age, city or county (of the victim) in this case," said Melanie Collett, Panhandle Health District spokeswoman. "If our epidemiologists believe more specific information will help someone identify a patient or victim, we will err on the side of caution because that information is HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) protected."

Last year there were eight people in the five northern counties and 32 statewide who died from complications of the flu.

"We cannot predict this year (if the numbers are expected to be up or down from last year)," Collett said. "Early indications nationally suggest the vaccine is a good match for the strains of flu that have been circulating so far, which is good news. Our hope is that people who are unvaccinated will get a flu shot soon, so they are protected over the holidays."

Historically, the flu season peaks mid-January to mid-February, but last year it peaked the week of Christmas-New Year’s in Idaho.

"This week, CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) is reporting several southern states with elevated or high levels of flu activity, so it is starting to ramp up," Collett said.

Dave Hylsky, PHD staff epidemiologist, said the tragedy involving the North Idaho woman emphasizes that the flu is a serious illness and now is the time to get vaccinated if you haven't already.

The flu infects 5 to 20 percent of Americans, causing more than 200,000 hospitalizations and about 30,000 deaths each year, according to health officials.

"Our condolences go out to the family of the woman who died," said Idaho Department of Health and Welfare State Epidemiologist Christine Hahn.

Residents are also encouraged to wash their hands with soap regularly and stay home if they are sick. The are also encouraged to use alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after coughing, sneezing or touching your face.

Health officials recommend everyone over the age of six months get the flu vaccine.

Flu symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue and sometimes a cough and sore throat. Most people who get influenza recover after a few days, but some people may develop serious complications and even die.

People who are especially vulnerable to complications of the flu include pregnant women, people 50 and older, people with chronic medical conditions, those who live in long-term care facilities, and people who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from the flu.