Whitman County Public Health has reported the first flu death of a county resident for the 2024-2025 flu season. As flu cases rise in the area, the organization emphasizes the importance of taking precautions to protect against the virus, including vaccination, which is still available.

The United States is facing a notably severe flu season, with influenza deaths surpassing COVID-19 fatalities for the first time since the pandemic began in 2019. The Washington State Department of Health has noted that the 2023-2024 flu season recorded 134 influenza-related deaths statewide, while the current season has increased to 357 flu-related fatalities.

Health officials indicate that Whitman County is experiencing flu rates significantly above the threshold that indicates high disease activity. For details on flu symptoms and prevention methods, refer to the Flu Fact Sheet.