Flu Season Still Gaining Ground In WA Heading Toward The Holidays

OLYMPIA, WA — The flu season is showing no signs of slowing down heading into the holidays, and activity remains very high as related hospitalizations and deaths continue to rise. Flu season kicked off early this year, state health officials said the most common strain this season is influenza A, or H3N2, which is linked to more severe symptoms.

Flu infections can present serious and life-threatening complications even in younger people, but is especially hazardous for patients under 5, 65 and older, or who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have chronic health conditions.

"The current flu season is early this year and flu deaths are at higher rates than usually seen at this point in the year," the state Department of Health wrote Tuesday. "As of December 10, 40 people have died from the flu in Washington including three children."

Health officials continue to urge more people to get their flu shots, particularly as other respiratory viruses circulate and more people are inside amid wintry weather and holiday celebrations.

"It's not too late to get your flu shot, so we urge everyone aged 6 months and older to get vaccinated as soon as possible," said Dr. Umair Shah, state Secretary of Health. "Flu is spreading rapidly through our state and getting your flu shot now helps to protect u all, especially as we plan to gather for holidays and events."

Here's what the DOH recommends:

• Get up to date on any vaccines that are due. This includes the yearly flu vaccine and any COVID-19 boosters for those 6 months and older. Vaccination is your best defense against many serious diseases.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer when soap is not available, and hands are not visibly soiled.
• Consider wearing a mask in crowded or indoor settings.
• Sneeze or cough into the crook of your arm or a tissue so you don’t put germs on your hands or in the air.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• If you feel sick, stay home.
• Learn more at KnockOutFlu.org.