SALT LAKE CITY, UT – The flu season in Salt Lake County has claimed the lives of two children and three adults over the age of 50. According to Nicholas Rupp of the Salt Lake County Health Department, none of the victims had received a flu vaccine. This is a tragic reminder of the risks associated with vaccine-preventable illnesses. During the same period, 353 people in Salt Lake County have been hospitalized with influenza, and the total number of flu-related hospitalizations across Utah this season is 706.
Health officials note that this flu season is particularly concerning due to the simultaneous circulation of three different flu strains. Rupp highlighted the fact that while this may be unusual, all three strains are included in this year’s flu vaccine, which is a positive sign. There are four strains in the vaccine, and three of the four are the ones currently circulating, making this year’s vaccine well-matched to the season.
It’s not too late for individuals to get vaccinated, as the flu season may stretch into May. Rupp emphasized that being vaccinated can lead to milder symptoms and a shorter duration of illness if one does get infected. Unvaccinated individuals may experience weeks of fatigue and achiness, while vaccinated individuals are more likely to have a shorter and less severe illness.
The expectations for the flu vaccine this year have been met as three of the active flu strains are covered in the vaccine, thus providing potential benefits in managing and preventing severe flu-related illnesses. This underscores the importance of getting vaccinated, especially since the flu season may continue for several more months.