Updated Sept. 6, 2023
Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) anticipates a potentially active flu season for 2023-2024. In addition to flu, cases of COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are expected to increase as well. However, unlike last year, which saw a spike in RSV, COVID-19 and flu cases, we have more tools to help keep those most vulnerable safe with new vaccines and treatments for RSV, updated vaccines for COVID-19, and of course, this year’s flu vaccines. The best thing you can do to protect yourself and others and reduce the burden on health care systems is to get vaccinated before flu season begins!
Use the resources on this page to understand what the flu is, how to prevent the flu and what to do if you or someone you know thinks they may have flu symptoms.
For more information about the status of this year's flu season, including cases, hospitalizations and deaths, download the weekly Respiratory Illness Report.
Influenza, commonly referred to as “the flu," is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that infects the nose, throat and lungs. It can cause moderate to severe illness. It is not what people sometimes refer to as the “stomach flu” where there is primarily vomiting and diarrhea. That is a gastrointestinal virus, not respiratory.
Flu occurs in the United States most often in the fall and winter. In Spokane County, the virus commonly peaks in January through mid-March.
The flu spreads from person to person by coughing and sneezing and
can spread to others before a person knows they're sick. Adults can
infect others one day before symptoms develop and up to five days after
becoming sick. Kids can spread the virus for 10 or more days.
View the flu FAQ to learn more about the influenza, flu vaccinations and where to get vaccinated.
Symptoms
If you or someone you know has these symptoms and they are severe,
contact your doctor, nurse or clinic as soon as possible. The best way
to tell if you have flu is for a healthcare provider to swab your throat
and have a lab confirm the diagnosis.
Today's routine childhood vaccines protect our kids from a long list of diseases, giving you one less thing to worry about and allowing them to live their #bestlife.
Working with providers on the incidence, distribution, and possible control of diseases, illnesses and other factors relating to health.
