Boise (670 KBOI) – The flu is sweeping the country, and Idaho is one of the states hardest hit so far.
Chris Smith with Idaho Health and Welfare says while it may seem worse this year than in years past, only seven people have died so far this flu season, which started in October.
“Looking back at last year’s flu season, which was a record for the state, at least in the past decade or so, there were 72 deaths in Idaho, due to flu in that 2016-2017 season,” said Smith.

He says this year’s dominant flu strain, the Type A H-3 strain, can be particularly dangerous to those over 65.
The best way to keep from getting — or spreading — the flu? Get a flu shot, if you’re sick, stay home, cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, and wash your hands often.