Increases in the number of people diagnosed with influenza have prompted the Utah Department of Health to upgrade Utah’s status to “local” from “sporadic activity.”

Influenza seasons are unpredictable in several ways due to the beginning, severity and length of the season, including the type and strain of the virus that is circulating on any given year.

To date, 59 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported statewide, with 43 of those cases reported during December and January. The majority of reported cases are influenza type A and most have occurred in children less than 18 years of age. Influenza A is commonly associated with more severe disease and outbreaks.

TriCounty Health reports one pediatric case has been confirmed in the Uintah Basin.

“While Utah has not yet reached peak activity, it isn’t uncommon to see influenza activity peak during January or February,” said Dr. Robert Rolfs, UDOH state epidemiologist. “Vaccination is still effective in preventing disease, especially since more cases are occurring,” says Dr. Rolfs.

In 16 of the last 19 years, vaccine has been well matched to the virus to provide optimal protection, making influenza vaccination the best defense against the virus. Vaccination reduces the chance of getting the flu by 70 to 90 percent in healthy adults and 66 percent or higher in young children.

Close contacts of young children should also receive immunizations to provide additional protection. Keep in mind that two weeks are needed for the body to build the necessary antibodies against the virus.

According to health officials, the risk of exposure to influenza increases during this time of the season because more people are traveling to Utah for winter activities. Crowded settings in restaurants and other businesses create an easy environment for spreading influenza. School-aged children are also common contributors to influenza outbreaks.

UDOH recommends people get vaccinated throughout the season to prevent serious illness and to keep from spreading the disease to others. All age groups, especially young children, the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions, should get an influenza vaccine, if they haven’t already. Other groups, such as pregnant women, international travelers, service workers and health care personnel should also get vaccinated.

TriCounty Health Department is offering influenza vaccine at a reduced price of $20. Both pediatric and adult doses are available during regular clinic hours in both Roosevelt (722-6302) and Vernal (781-5475) offices.