CDC: Idaho is among the states under ‘widespread’ flu alert

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) -

Tis’ the season for aches, pains, and a fever. The flu season is off to an early start and its effects are already being felt statewide. Health officials are calling it an aggressive strain this year.

According to the Center for Disease Control, Idaho is among 22 other states under a widespread alert, meaning that there is a flu activity in all parts of the state.

But, there is some good news in our region.

“It’s been relatively mild. We’ve had a few cases being reported from a few of the different clinics, but I know it has been picking up,” epidemiologist for Southeast Idaho Public Health, Jeff Doerr said.

This graph shows southeast east Idaho has very little flu activity. However, health officials are urging people to get the flu vaccination now, to prevent the disease from spreading and to reduce its severity if you contract the illness.

“There’s still enough pieces of that virus that we have immunity. It can lessen the severity of that illness compared to if you did not have that vaccination,” Doerr said.

More times than not, people often don’t know whether they have the flu or just a bad cold.

The three main indicators are:

• Rapid onset of a high fever - usually between 102 and 104 
• Extreme fatigue
• And aches and pains 

If you find yourself a bit under the weather, Tamiflu is the best way to combat the effects of the virus. It should be administered within the first 24 hours of symptoms.

Health officials say to seek immediate medical attention if a fever exceeding 103 degrees lasts more than 3 to 5 days.