Widespread flu activity reported

According to Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Montana closed January with widespread influenza activity. The number of Montanans reported to be infected with “the flu” increased over the past several weeks, with a high of 723 new cases last week. Since the start of the flu season in October, over 3,290 people have tested positive for influenza, 423 have been hospitalized, and 21 adults 50 years and over have died.

Locally, flu activity continues to be reported in all 3 regions of Jefferson County for a total of 55 cases so far. Seven hospitalizations and one death have...