The South Dakota Department of Health has reported the first influenza death in the state during the 2021-2022 flu season.
State epidemiologist Dr. Josh Clayton says in addition to one death, the state has reported 89 lab-confirmed cases of flu and four flu-related hospitalizations in the past week. He says each year, an average of 39 deaths are reported to the Department of Health following influenza infections.
Clayton says influenza, much like COVID-19, is a viral infection spread by respiratory droplets released when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes. Common symptoms of the flu include fever of 100 degrees or greater, cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue, body or muscle aches and runny or stuffy nose.
To protect against flu complications, annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older. Groups like pregnant women, children younger than 5 years, people over 65 years, and people with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk for flu-related complications, such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and death. Healthcare workers and household contacts of high-risk populations, such as those with young infants, should also be vaccinated.
In addition to vaccination, to prevent the spread of the flu:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand gel;
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; and
- Stay home if you are sick.
For more information and the latest resources visit flu.sd.gov.
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