The Arizona Department of Health Services announced today that there are now 245 laboratory confirmed cases of influenza in Arizona. While health indicators used to monitor influenza activity show flu is at a mild to moderate level in the State, they also suggest flu and flu related illnesses are on the rise. 

ADHS also confirmed the first death of an Arizonan from influenza. An adult female from a rural Arizona county died last week after developing influenza and pneumonia. 

Influenza is responsible for over 200,000 hospitalizations and an average of 36,000 deaths a year nationwide. Most cases of influenza are not lab reported. People with influenza usually recover after being ill for several days with a high fever, extreme exhaustion, muscle aches and a bad cough. However, certain groups of people are known to be at higher risk for complications from influenza such as hospitalization or death.

“Fortunately, we are still experiencing a mild to moderate flu season this year in Arizona,” Will Humble, Bureau Chief of ADHS’s Disease Control Programs said. “But, if you or someone in your family gets influenza, it won’t seem mild to you. That’s why it’s so important to practice the simple precautions like washing your hands frequently, covering your cough, and staying home from work or school when you’re sick.” 

People who are experiencing flu-like illnesses should contact their health care provider to determine whether or not they should receive anti-viral flu medication, which can shorten the length of their illness, if taken early enough. 
There is still some influenza vaccine available in Arizona and people should check with their healthcare provider about vaccine availability. 
For more information about influenza, visit www.azdhs.gov/flu.