Mesa County saw an increase in influenza hospitalizations following the holiday season. Twenty-six hospitalizations were reported between October 1 through December 23, and 49 were reported between December 24 and January 4. Data from local health care facilities show the percentage of visits for influenza-like illness have increased during that same time period.

• Residents older than 65 years of age are most affected, totaling 68 percent of hospitalized cases.
• As of January 5, no deaths due to influenza have been reported so far this season in Mesa County.
• The best way to protect against influenza is to get immunized.
• Flu season runs through May, so it isn’t too late to get immunized.
• Immunization also lessens the severity of symptoms should a person get sick with influenza.
• Good hand-washing and staying home when you’re sick will also help prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

Mesa County Public Health offers influenza immunization to all residents regardless of ability to pay. Call 248- 6900 to make an appointment or contact your health care provider.

For a daily flu hospitalization update, visit health.mesacounty.us/news