Charlie Brereton Director at Montana Department of Public Health | LinkedIn
Charlie Brereton Director at Montana Department of Public Health | LinkedIn
As the fall and winter seasons approach, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is urging residents to prepare for respiratory illnesses. These include COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The department emphasizes taking precautions to mitigate severe symptoms from these infections.
Currently, cases of respiratory viruses remain low across most of the United States but have seen an uptick in recent weeks. Montana has already reported laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza and recorded its first influenza-related death for the 2023-2024 season. The deceased was an adult resident of Cascade County who passed away last week.
Health officials note that it is unusual to report an influenza death this early in the season, as such reports typically begin in November in Montana.
Vaccination is highlighted as the most effective protection against serious outcomes like hospitalization or death due to these diseases. Older adults, infants, those with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease are at higher risk for severe illness. However, healthy children and adults can also experience significant disease.
Vaccines are available for COVID-19, influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and RSV. Residents can find vaccine locations by visiting vaccines.gov or contacting local health departments or healthcare providers. DPHHS advises Montanans to consult healthcare providers to determine appropriate vaccine options for the upcoming respiratory season.
Beyond vaccination, everyday precautions can help curb the spread of respiratory illnesses. Symptoms common to COVID-19, flu, RSV, and other respiratory conditions include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Those experiencing such symptoms should consult a medical provider who may recommend testing for a diagnosis. Antiviral medications are available for certain individuals with influenza or COVID-19 infections.
Immediate medical evaluation is advised for anyone experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion or disorientation onset, inability to stay awake or other concerning signs.
To keep residents informed about COVID-19, influenza, and RSV activity within the state this month DPHHS will launch a new dashboard.
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