Lincoln County sees its first influenza case

February 8, 2011

Local providers and the state lab in Helena confirmed last week the first case of influenza in Lincoln County, health officials announced.

The common seasonal Type A and H1N1 viruses were both identified in the specimens being tested, said Marci Johnson, communicable disease coordinator, for the county health department. “The flu usually comes on suddenly,” Johnson said in a press release. “People who have the flu often feel some or all of the following symptoms – cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy noses, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue.

“Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea although this is more common in children than adults,” she added. “Fever or feeling feverish and chilled often accompanies the flu but not everyone with flu will have a fever.”

Johnson said most people who get the flu will recover in a few days and usually in less than two weeks. However, it is possible to develop complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis or sinus infections. The flu can also aggravate chronic health problems such as asthma, she said.

To schedule an appointment for the flu vaccination at the county health department, call 293-2660 in Libby and Troy, or 296-2023 in Eureka.

http://www.thewesternnews.com/news/article_1d8b9784-33d5-11e0-b7a8-001cc4c03286.html