An Owyhee County man older than 65 is Idaho’s first reported influenza-related death of the 2026-2027 season.
Flu seasons vary from year to year in their timing and duration. Influenza emergency department and urgent care visits have been higher during the last two weeks than they were during the same time last year. Idaho has averaged about 60 reported influenza-related deaths annually for the last five seasons, with most reported deaths among people over 50.
“The Department of Health and Welfare is reminding residents that flu can be very serious,” said Idaho Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Kathryn Turner. “Influenza activity is on the rise in Idaho and across the country, with the highest nationwide activity currently being seen in western states.”
Turne reminded Idahoans that annual influenza vaccination can reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death from flu. Consult your healthcare professional or pharmacist for information and recommendations about the annual influenza vaccine.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this year’s vaccines are designed to protect against three different influenza viruses expected to circulate during the upcoming flu season.
Regular hand washing, covering coughs, and staying home when sick are also excellent ways Idahoans can reduce the spread of flu.
Turner encouraged Idahoans at higher risk for serious flu-related complications to take extra precautions. Those at higher risk include people with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, young children, and anyone 65 or older.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills, or fatigue. Although most people who get the flu recover after a few days, some can have serious complications that can lead to hospitalization or death.
Additional resources:
- Idaho influenza data: https://www.gethealthy.dhw.idaho.gov/infectious-diseases-seasonal-flu
- CDC Influenza website: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.html
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.