BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — A new strain of influenza is posing a significant health risk in Idaho, with doctor visits for the virus reaching a 15-year peak in December, according to an article by Boise State Public Radio.
Dr. Christine Hahn, Idaho’s state epidemiologist, highlighted the novelty of this flu strain in the Treasure Valley. “Our immune systems haven’t seen anything quite like it for, uh, maybe ever. Um, and so that always makes us worry about a bad flu season,” said Hahn.
She noted that fewer people are getting immunized, partly due to prioritizing COVID-19 vaccinations. “Even though that flu vaccine may not work 100%, studies have shown in the United Kingdom, where they’ve already had a large flu outbreak, that the vaccine is keeping people out of the hospital,” Hahn said.
Vaccination rates are declining in Idaho, with the Centers for Disease Control reporting the state had the lowest rate of kindergarteners vaccinated for measles, mumps, and rubella in the country last school year.
This week, the CDC reduced the number of vaccines recommended for children from 17 shots to 11. Hahn emphasized that it’s not too late to get a flu shot or prescription antiviral, as the flu season typically lasts through March.