The flu is widespread in Iowa with over 180 influenza-associated hospitalizations. According to the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network, reports of influenza-related outbreaks in long term care facilities are being received. There have been 32 reported flu outbreaks in long term care facilities this flu season.

Also, two children in Iowa have died due to the flu with a third case under investigation. Iowa Department of Public Health still recommends getting a flu shot. Lynn Fisher with Washington County Public Health says the vaccine is the best way to prevent getting the flu, even though a strain has mutated. Also, she reminds people to wash their hands frequently, cover their coughs and stay home when sick to prevent the spread of illness.

At the national level, the proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza is above the epidemic threshold.