(BOISE, Idaho) -- The flu has claimed the lives of two Idaho adults, marking the first reported influenza deaths this season in the state, officials said Thursday.
A woman from Ada County and a woman from Kootenai County died recently from the illness. Both were over the age of 60.
“Our condolences go out to the families of those who died from complications of the flu,” said Dr. Leslie Tengelsen, deputy state epidemiologist for the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
“This underscores how important it is for all of us to take precautions to avoid influenza infections. Now is the time to visit your health care provider, local public health district, or pharmacy to get vaccinated as soon as possible.”
Health officials recommend that all residents older than 6 months receive the flu vaccine and encourage children ages 2 through 8 years old to get the nasal spray vaccine in lieu of the shot.
In Idaho's last flu season, 19 people died from flu-related illnesses.
For more information on protection and prevention, visit the state health website.
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