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Montana Reports First Child death from Influenza in the 2023-24 Season

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services announced on Tuesday the unfortunate news of the state’s first child death from influenza during the current season. The victim, a resident of Big Horn County under the age of 18, succumbed to the virus. This marks the 11th influenza-related death in Montana since the start of the season on January 5, according to the agency.

Last flu season, in 2022-23, Montana experienced a flu-related pediatric death, wherein one young individual lost their life. However, specific details regarding the latest flu victim, such as age and date of death, were not disclosed by the authorities.

Montana is currently grappling with widespread influenza activity, as cases and outbreaks have been reported in 49 out of the state’s 56 counties, accounting for 88% of the region.

From October 1, 2023, to December 30, 2023, Montana recorded 5,759 confirmed cases of influenza and 304 hospitalizations due to the virus. To access the latest data on influenza in Montana, the newly launched Montana Influenza Dashboard can be visited at [lnks.gd].

While influenza continues to pose a significant threat, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services also emphasized the circulation of COVID-19 in the state. Between October 1, 2023, and December 30, 2023, a total of 9,094 COVID-19 cases were reported, with 530 resulting in hospitalizations and 55 leading to deaths. Although individuals of all age groups in Montana have been affected by COVID-19, those aged 60 years and above face higher rates of hospitalization and mortality.

The prevalence of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), is steadily increasing across the state. To provide comprehensive and up-to-date information on each condition, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services has introduced an online dashboard, accessible at [lnks.gd].

Vaccination as the Best Defense

As a crucial measure in protecting against severe outcomes, such as hospitalization and death, vaccination stands as the most effective defense against these diseases. While older adults, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions face the greatest risk, it is important to note that healthy children and adults can still experience severe illness.

Vaccines are readily available for COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and RSV. To find nearby vaccine locations, individuals can visit vaccines.gov [lnks.gd] or consult their local health department or healthcare provider.

Montanans aged six months and older can now access updated COVID-19 vaccines. Similarly, several flu vaccines are available for individuals aged six months and older, with a single dose providing protection throughout the entire flu season, which spans from October to June.

Pneumococcal vaccines, on the other hand, aid in safeguarding against a severe form of bacterial pneumonia, the most critical manifestation of pneumococcal disease. Older individuals and those with chronic conditions such as diabetes or existing lung diseases face a higher risk of contracting this disease and experiencing severe health complications.

Moreover, adults aged 60 years and older are eligible to receive RSV vaccines after consulting with their healthcare providers. Infants and young children under 24 months old may also be eligible for a monoclonal antibody product that provides protection against severe RSV infection.

It is strongly recommended that Montanans consult with their healthcare providers to determine the most suitable vaccine options for the upcoming respiratory season.

Precautions to Prevent Respiratory Illness

In addition to vaccination, implementing everyday precautions can significantly contribute to stopping the spread of respiratory illnesses. Montanans are advised to:

• Stay home if experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness. If a fever is present, individuals should remain at home for at least 24 hours after the fever subsides without the use of fever-reducing medication, unless seeking medical care.
• Wash hands regularly with soap and water. In the absence of soap and water, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Cover the mouth with the inner elbow or a disposable tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid contact with individuals experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness.

Symptoms of COVID-19, flu, RSV, and other respiratory illnesses can be similar, encompassing a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches, and fatigue. If experiencing any of these symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a medical provider, who may advise getting tested to confirm a diagnosis. Antiviral medications are available for certain individuals diagnosed with influenza or COVID-19 infections.

Individuals presenting severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, persistent chest pain or pressure, new onset of confusion or disorientation, inability to stay awake, or any other severe or concerning symptoms should promptly seek medical evaluation.

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