Flu season begins in Wyoming

Influenza is starting to spread into Wyoming.

The Wyoming Department of Health reported increased flu activity across the state in recent weeks.

"While we are not seeing as many cases as this time last year," said Reggie McClinton, surveillance epidemiologist with the Wyoming Department of Health, "reported influenza activity is definitely picking up."

Campbell County has reported the highest instances of influenza.

Luckily, the Saratoga area has not been dramatically impacted by influenza. Dr. Dean Bartholomew (MD), of the Platte Valley Medical Clinic, said that he has not seen a case of influenza in the past three weeks.

Despite the low number of local cases, the risk for an outbreak is far from over. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) claims that flu activity most commonly peaks in January or February.

State epidemiologist with the Wyoming Department of Health Dr. Tracy Murphy

"We are not yet seeing widespread community transmission or the likely peak of flu activity for the season."

Bartholomew said that taking simple precautions can help avoid the flu this season.

"People need to get their vaccinations" he said. "Use common sense. If you start to feel sick, stay home."

Symptoms of influenza include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches.

People who believe they are getting influenza should seek immediate medical attention.