Influenza is hitting community members and the Department of Health reports that the 2018-2019 influenza season has had an increase in activity in Utah. Although the number of reported influenza-associated hospitalizations reached a season-high of 93 they are still below the historic average. Statewide we are not seeing a high number of hospitalizations, explains TriCounty Health Director Jordan Mathis, but there is a spike in positive lab results, though it remains in the moderate zone. The strain that they are seeing most of all is Influenza A 2009 (H1N1). “This strain is covered by the vaccine so we are strongly encouraging people to still get their influenza vaccine,” shares Mathis. “Also, we are seeing a moderate amount of influenza-like illnesses so we want to remind people that if they aren’t feeling well to stay home from work, school, church, etc. This will help to stop the spread of disease in our community.”
