Two more people die in southeast Idaho because of flu

Southeastern Idaho Public Health announced Tuesday that 2 more people in the region have died because of influenza-related illness.

According to SIPH, a man and a woman in southeastern Idaho died from symptoms. Both of the victims were over the age of 50. These two deaths bring the total to 3 so far this season.

SIPH wants to remind everyone that now is the time to prevent the illness by using healthy practices and getting vaccinated if possible. Getting vaccinated doesn’t just protect you, but also other members of your family, your coworkers, and your friends.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that infects 5 to 20 percent of the population every year. 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. Every year, the flu contributes to an estimated 36,000 deaths in the United States, along with more than 200,000 hospitalizations.
People who are especially vulnerable to complications of the flu include:

Pregnant women People 50 years of age and older People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung diseases People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu