Grant County Reports Spike in Respiratory Illness, 3 Dead | Columbia Basin

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Grant County Reports Spike in Respiratory Illness, 3 Dead | Columbia Basin

MOSES LAKE – The Grant County Health District (GCHD) has issued a serious advisory as the 2024/2025 respiratory illness season sees heightened activity levels, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19, impacting local communities. Authorities confirm three flu-related deaths among residents, emphasizing the severity of this year’s flu strain.

Dr. Brzezny, Grant County Health Officer, expressed his condolences, stating, “These deaths are a painful reminder of the high influenza activity seen in our country and in our area. Our hearts go out to the families and friends who are mourning their loved ones.”

The latest data from mid-December showed that over 11% of emergency department visits in Grant County were for respiratory illnesses, marking the highest peak in the last two seasons. Despite a slight decline in RSV and COVID-19 cases recently, influenza remains significantly active, prompting ongoing vigilance.

GCHD has been proactive in mitigating influenza outbreaks, particularly within healthcare facilities and schools, as shown in a provided graph illustrating weekly positive test cases for RSV, COVID-19, and influenza among local emergency department visits. Officials note that not all cases are reported and caution that the most recent data, indicated by a dotted line on the graph, is incomplete and pending.

Statewide, the Washington State Department of Health reports 43 flu-associated deaths this season, with most victims having underlying health conditions. Influenza A has been the predominant strain, though shifts to other strains like influenza B are not uncommon as the season progresses.

GCHD encourages the community to take preventive measures to protect themselves and others. Recommendations include vaccination, avoiding healthcare settings if symptomatic, and practicing good hygiene like frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes.

For those testing positive for a respiratory virus, GCHD advises staying home until symptoms improve and fever subsides for at least 24 hours without medication. Additional precautions, including mask-wearing, are recommended for five days upon returning to normal activities.

As the avian influenza situation is also monitored, GCHD clarifies that while bird flu primarily affects birds, it poses a risk to humans upon close contact with infected or deceased birds. Unlike seasonal flu, bird flu is not transmissible between humans and currently has no available vaccine.

For ongoing updates and more information on how to stay safe during the respiratory virus season, residents are urged to visit GCHD’s website or follow their updates on social media.

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