Idaho Matters Doctor Roundtable: January 7, 2026

By Gemma Gaudette

Published January 7, 2026 at 1:18 PM MST

FILE - A certified medical assistant holds a syringe for a flu vaccine at a clinic in Seattle, on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025.

As the U.S. deals with its worst flu season in more than 30 years, Idaho is seeing the highest levels of flu activity since 2009. It’s so bad, we’ve already had six influenza deaths recorded in Idaho, and we are early in the season.

Dr. David Pate, the former CEO of St. Luke's Health System and the author of the book "Preparing for the Next Global Outbreak," joined Idaho Matters to talk about the health news making headlines.

Idaho Matters

Gemma Gaudette

Hi! I’m Gemma Gaudette, the host of the award-winning show, Idaho Matters. During the day you’ll find me researching and writing about all the fascinating topics we tackle on our show. And of course, at noon, each weekday you’ll find me live behind the microphone as Idaho Matters airs.

See stories by Gemma Gaudette