Clallam County health officer reports first local influenza deaths; RSV, pertussis and avian flu updates

Clallam County Health Officer Dr. Allison Berry told the county Board of Health on Jan. 21, 2025, that the county has recorded its first two deaths associated with seasonal influenza and that influenza rates are beginning to decline.

The update outlined current activity for multiple respiratory and zoonotic infections and why residents and providers should care. Berry said influenza remains in the community, COVID-19 activity is low, RSV activity is elevated across the state but less severe locally—likely because pediatric RSV vaccines are now available—and pertussis continues to appear sporadically. She also described recent animal outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza and precautions for people who keep or care for animals.

"The best thing that any of us can do to reduce that risk in ourselves and others is to get this year's flu vaccine, and to consider masking in those crowded indoor spaces," Berry said during the meeting.

Ber…