Five cases of flu have been confirmed in Missoula and Lewis and Clark Counties. These are the first flu cases of the season in Montana.
The Department of Public Health and Human Services says three cases have been confirmed in Missoula County and two in Lewis and Clark County - in ages ranging from children to the elderly.
Last flu season, 33 Montanans died from influenza infections.
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the flu rate is up nationwide slightly, from 0.5 percent of all samples tested to 1.5 percent.
Influenza vaccinations are recommended for everyone six months of age and older, especially people with asthma, diabetes and other chronic medical conditions.
Vaccinations are available from health care providers, public health agencies and many pharmacies.