Montana recorded its first influenza death of the 2025-26 influenza season on Monday, Missoula Public Health and state Department of Public Health and Human Services announced.

There have been 234 reported cases of influenza this season, which generally runs from fall through winter. Those cases have resulted in six hospitalizations.

“In Missoula County and nationwide, hospitalization rates are increasing for respiratory illnesses, including the flu and COVID-19,” a press release said. “Getting vaccinated remains the best tool along with basic prevention measures to protect everyone in the community from respiratory illnesses.”

Flu symptoms include high fever, chills, headaches, exhaustion, sore throat, cough and body aches. It can take several days after being exposed to the virus for symptoms to develop. Additionally, flu can spread one day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.

Health officials are also tracking clusters and moving forward with their disease surveillance programs. 

“The Montana Public Health Laboratory is ramping up influenza surveillance to track statewide activity, circulating strains, and antiviral resistance,” a DPHHS press release stated. “This year’s program mirrors last season, with 14 hospital labs submitting two specimens weekly and 33 additional labs receiving fee-waived tests for confirmation.”

Health officials are encouraging everyday precautions to stop the spread of influenza including:

• Getting vaccinated.
• Wearing a mask if you are sick and need to go out in public.
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
• Washing hands often with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
• Staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, unless you medical care or necessities.