Skagit health officials report first flu deaths of season

SKAGIT COUNTY, Wash. — Three people in Skagit County died from the flu and the deaths are the first confirmed in the county for the flu season, Joanne Lynn, Skagit County Public Health communicable disease and environmental health manager, said Friday morning.

Skagit County Public Health received notification Wednesday that two males died, and one of the three persons was younger than 65 years old, officials said.

Officials said they are closely working with health care partners in the area to monitor and respond to those who have confirmed cases of influenza.

Health officials said people who get the flu are most contagious in the first couple of days after the illness begins. Some others with the infection may pass it along to others a day before symptoms start and up to five to seven days after becoming sick.

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Flu symptoms include:

•    Cough
•    Sore throat
•    Runny or stuffy nose
•    Muscle or body aches
•    Headaches
•    Fatigue (very tired)
•    Some people may have fever, vomiting and diarrhea

People who get sick can be particularly at high risk of developing flu-related complications, especially adults who are 65 years and older, officials said.

Other people who are at risk are those with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease), pregnant women and young children.

Flu activity is known to begin in October, peaks between December and February and can last into late May, officials said.

Cox Media Group