Templeton Board of Health: influenza A ‘‘running rampant,’’ officials urge vaccination and caution

Marie (identified by first name in the transcript) delivered the communicable-disease report at the Jan. 6 meeting of the Town of Templeton Board of Health and said, "Flu type a ... is running rampant." She told the board that this season’s vaccine did not fully match the circulating strain but should reduce the severity of illness for those vaccinated.

Marie said the town has seen lingering coughs and that health providers have reported bronchitis, pneumonia and respiratory syncytial virus in the region. She said Western Massachusetts "has taken a heavy hit" and that the Department of Public Health informed the board it is "definitely peak flu season." On local COVID activity she said testing is low and estimated there were "2 or 3" positive cases in the last quarter.

Board members were told to encourage residents to stay home when sick, drink fluids and rest. Marie advised anyone having difficulty breathing to contact their physician rather than delay care. She also reminded listeners that flu vaccines remain available at pharmacies and other providers and that it is "not too late to get a flu vaccine."

No formal action or vote was taken on the communicable-disease report; the item was presented as information. The Board did not adopt new policies at the meeting but received the DPH notice and reiterated public-health guidance for the community.