Lewis County Public Health and Social Services (LCPHSS) on Friday reported the county’s first influenza-related death of the current flu season.
The individual was a Lewis County resident who was hospitalized and later died due to complications associated with influenza.
Out of respect for the individual and their family, no additional personal details will be released by LCPHSS.
“Influenza is a serious illness that can lead to severe complications, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant people, and those with underlying health conditions,” Dr. Joseph Wiley, Lewis County’s health officer, said in a news release. “This death is a reminder that flu is circulating in our community and that prevention continues to be important.”
Influenza, commonly known as “the flu,” is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness and, in some cases, death. Each year, influenza results in hospitalizations and deaths across Washington state and the United States, particularly during the fall and winter months.
LCPHSS encourages community members to take steps to protect themselves and others, including getting a seasonal flu vaccine, staying home when sick, washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and seeking medical care if flu symptoms become severe or concerning.
Antiviral medications may help reduce the severity and duration of illness when started early and are especially important for people at higher risk for complications.
Information about flu vaccination locations and immunization resources in Lewis County is available at https://tinyurl.com/vbdpumf4.
Current statewide and regional respiratory illness trends, including influenza, are available through the Washington state Department of Health’s respiratory illness data dashboard at https://tinyurl.com/2sv8taa3.
