Flu season typically starts in October

On average, between 5 and 20 percent of the US population will get the flu and close to 200,000 Americans will be hospitalized each year because of complications of the illness. While it is not possible to predict what the flu season will be like this year, we do know that we see an annual spread of the virus. Of course, the timing, length and severity of the virus varies from year to year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “The United States experiences epidemics of seasonal flu each year.” Influenza activity is most common during the fall and winter months with the start of the flu season typically starting in October and November, and cases can be seen as late as May. Locally, our flu season peaks between December and March.

We are encouraging everyone to take the flu seriously and to take steps to remain healthy this season. Getting vaccinated is the first and best way to protect yourself and your family. The recommendation is for everyone over the age of 6 months get vaccinated. Vaccinations are especially important for people at high risk for complications from the flu. People at higher risk include infants, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease and people 65 and older.

Most people who contract the flu do not require medical attention and should stay home from work, school, social events and public gatherings until they feel better. The CDC recommends staying home for at least 24 hours once a fever is gone without the use of a fever reducing medication. Typical symptoms of the flu can include fever, cough, runny nose, head and body aches and fatigue. Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea.

Occasionally with the flu complications arise that require medical attention. If a patient is experiencing a shortness of breath, the inability to keep fluids down because of nausea, persistent shaking chills, symptoms lasting more than 10 days, pain or pressure in the chest, convulsions, fast breathing, bluish tint to skin or other worrisome symptoms, seek medical advice right away. If particularly severe, go to the nearest emergency department.

If you are in need of a primary care provider, I am happy to be of service. Call my office at 208-232-1000.

Dr. Brandon West is board certified in family medicine. He has been in private practice for more than a decade. He is a graduate of ISU Family Practice Residency and attended medical school at the University of Health Sciences in Kansas City, Missouri.

Brandon West

Brandon West