Two Yellowstone County residents have died of influenza, the first flu deaths of the 2026-27 season in the county, RiverStone Health and the state health department confirmed.
A man in his 70s and a woman in her 90s died in October. Neither had received a flu vaccine this season, NonStop Local Billings reported. Since the respiratory illness season began Oct. 4, the county has recorded 119 flu cases and 15 hospitalizations. Statewide, health officials reported 76 flu hospitalizations and three deaths as of that accounting.
RiverStone’s chief medical officer, Dr. Megan Littlefield, said influenza “should never be taken lightly.” The department recommends a flu shot for everyone 6 months and older, available at RiverStone clinics, pharmacies and doctor’s offices. COVID-19 shots are also being offered at the same sites. KPAX and other Montana outlets carried the same figures this week.
Symptoms can appear one to four days after exposure. Officials advised people who get sick to stay home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours. Older adults, pregnant people and those with other medical conditions are at higher risk of severe disease, which is why the two deaths, both in unvaccinated older residents, are getting an early-season warning out of Billings.
RiverStone’s immunization clinic is at 123 South 27th Street in Billings. Appointments can be made at RiverStoneHealth.org/Immunizations or by calling 406-247-3382. The vaccine is billed to insurance and is available at no cost to people who are uninsured, the department said.
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