WYOMING — Flu season is upon us and it hits its peak between December and February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) issued a statement about flu season on Wednesday, saying the most recent influenza season demonstrated the virus is likely back to more normal patterns following the pandemic and is expected to be a threat in the coming months for Wyoming residents.
“Wyoming saw an active flu season over the most recent cycle and we would unfortunately expect that to be the case again,” WDH State Health Officer and State Epidemiologist Dr. Alexia Harrist said. “We expect influenza, COVID-19 and other familiar respiratory viruses will be present within our state and across the country over the coming months. In fact, we are already starting to receive reports of flu in Wyoming.”
According to WDH, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness and symptoms can come on suddenly, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, extreme tiredness and muscle or body aches.
Flu shots are the most important tool we have to reduce the severity and length of the illness, WDH tells Buckrail. Flu vaccines and updated COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone six months of age and older, and most people may get them at the same time.
“We recommend a seasonal flu shot for everyone six months of age and older who hasn’t already received one this fall because these important vaccines reduce and help prevent serious illness, hospitalizations and deaths,” Harrist said. “Flu shots are safe and continue to be our most important influenza protection strategy.”
WDH encourages vulnerable populations, such as young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older, to get a flu vaccine. Healthcare workers and people who may live with or are in contact with high risk individuals or infants six months of age and under, should also get the flu vaccine.
It takes about two weeks after receiving a flu shot for its protection to fully kick in, explained Harrist. “That’s why the best choice is to get your flu shot before people around you are ill,” she said.
Flu vaccines can be scheduled at Teton County Public Health, with a primary care physician or at St. John’s Health. WDH recommends checking on vaccine availability before visiting a specific local office, clinic or pharmacy.
To reduce the spread of influenza and COVID-19:
- Get flu and COVID vaccines.
- Stay home when sick.
- Wash hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water.
- Disinfect regularly with a hand sanitizer.
- Cover mouth when coughing and sneezing.
To learn more about flu vaccines in Wyoming, visit immunizewyoming.com.
