The Montana Public Health Laboratory in Helena has confirmed influenza in Lincoln County.

February and March is the usual time for the seasonal virus to make its way to this area and this year was no exception.

Seasonal influenza, commonly called “the flu,” is caused by influenza viruses, which infect the respiratory tract (i.e., the nose, throat, lungs).

Unlike many other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications in many people.

In the U.S., on average 5- to 20 percent of the population gets the flu and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from seasonal flu-related complications.

Some people, such as older people, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, (like asthma, chronic lung and heart disease, kidney and liver disorders) are at high risk for serious flu complications.

If you become sick, drink plenty of water and other clear liquids to prevent fluid loss (dehydration) and treat fever and cough with medicines.