Thurston County confirmed its first influenza-related death of the 2024-25 flu season, as flu activity continues to surge across Washington.
“Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) was notified of an influenza-related death in a Thurston County resident,” the PHSS announced in a press release on Friday, Jan. 3.
“To date, the Washington State Department of Health has reported five influenza-related deaths during the 2024-2025 influenza season,” the PHSS added.
Health officials are urging residents to take precautions, especially people at higher risk of severe complications, such as children, the elderly and individuals with preexisting conditions.
“Individuals who get sick with flu symptoms should stay home and avoid contact with others, except to get medical care,” the PHSS advised.
The PHSS highlighted the significant toll influenza takes on the health care system.
“Every year, hundreds of thousands of people in the United States are hospitalized from flu-related illnesses,” said the PHSS, warning that this season could strain emergency rooms and hospitals.
The county launched an Influenza Dashboard tracking emergency visits, hospitalizations, outbreaks and deaths.
The recent data in the dashboard reveals a steady rise in emergency department visits and hospitalizations compared to prior seasons.
According to the dashboard, the 2022-23 flu season recorded a peak with approximately 10% of emergency department visits attributed to influenza around Week 47.
Meanwhile, the 2023-24 season showed a similar upward trend in cases, particularly around Week 50 with emergency visits climbing steadily.
Hospitalization rates also increased around the same period, though they remain below the peak seen during the previous season.
Washington's flu activity remains high, with influenza A being the predominant strain.
Officials recommend vaccination as the best defense and stress the importance of hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas and staying home when sick.
PHSS continues to monitor respiratory illnesses and urges residents to remain vigilant.
Residents are encouraged to monitor Thurston County respiratory illness trends.
For more information on protecting yourself from influenza, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Washington State Department of Health website.
For additional questions, email Thurston County’s Disease Control and Prevention Division or contact it via phone at 360-867-2610.
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