Big Sky Times

State health officials in Montana are urging residents to take preventive measures against influenza as the state experiences widespread flu activity. Reports indicate that 96% of counties have documented cases and outbreaks, with 5,791 confirmed cases, 317 hospitalizations, and 16 deaths related to influenza between September 29, 2024, and February 1, 2025.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) continues to provide weekly updates on the Montana Influenza Dashboard. Vaccination is emphasized as the most effective protection against severe outcomes like hospitalization or death. "It is not too late to get vaccinated for influenza this season," stated Magdalena Scott, DPHHS Communicable Disease Epidemiology Section Supervisor.

Flu vaccines are available for individuals aged six months and older. Residents are advised to consult healthcare providers for vaccine recommendations and can find vaccine locations at vaccines.gov or through local health departments.

In addition to vaccination, everyday precautions such as staying home when symptomatic, frequent handwashing, covering coughs or sneezes, avoiding face-touching, and steering clear of those showing respiratory illness symptoms are recommended.

Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Scott advises consulting medical providers if symptoms arise: "Your provider may recommend that you get tested to confirm a diagnosis. Antiviral medications are available for individuals with influenza infections."

For severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or persistent chest pain, immediate medical evaluation is advised.

State agencies are also monitoring highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1), known as HPAI or avian flu. Since 2022 in Montana and across the U.S., there have been sporadic outbreaks among wild birds and domestic animals but no human-to-human transmission reported in Montana.

The general public's risk from HPAI remains low; however, higher-risk groups include those working with sick poultry or dairy cattle. The public should avoid contact with wild birds where possible.

For further information on HPAI in humans visit the CDC website; for domestic animal details visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture website; for information specific to wild birds in Montana visit the FWP website.