Big Sky Times

As Montana approaches the colder months, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is advising residents to prepare for the upcoming respiratory illness season. The department emphasizes precautions against COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

State health officials recommend staying updated on immunizations, remaining home when ill, getting tested and evaluated for treatment, and maintaining good hygiene practices.

The 2024-2025 respiratory illness season has already seen laboratory-confirmed influenza cases in Montana. During the previous season, over 19,000 influenza infections were reported to DPHHS, resulting in more than 900 hospitalizations and 44 deaths. Additionally, nearly 16,000 COVID-19 cases led to over 900 hospitalizations and 98 deaths. These figures exclude those who tested positive with at-home or over-the-counter kits.

DPHHS highlights preventive measures' importance in reducing illness burdens in Montana. Data on COVID-19, influenza, and RSV are available through weekly-updated DPHHS dashboards.

Vaccination remains the best protection against severe outcomes from these diseases. Those at higher risk include older adults, infants, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Vaccines are available for COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and RSV. Montanans should consult healthcare providers for recommended vaccines this fall and winter. Vaccines can be found via vaccines.gov or local health departments.

Symptoms of these illnesses are similar: fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, body aches, and fatigue. At-risk individuals should seek immediate healthcare for testing as treatments may reduce illness severity.

Those experiencing symptoms or who have tested positive should stay home until symptoms improve without fever-reducing medication for at least 24 hours. Enhanced precautions are advised for five days after returning to normal activities.

Immediate medical evaluation is necessary for severe symptoms such as trouble breathing or chest pain.