Seven people in Iowa were hospitalized last week for influenza-related issues, according to the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network. The nation’s influenza activity increased slightly last week but remained low. Flu activity in Iowa remains low and the geographic spread is sporadic. The State Hygienic Laboratory confirmed six influenza A(H3) viruses from samples. There were 29 cases of parainfluenza of four different virus types in the state and 47 rhinovirus/enterovirus. Lynn Fisher, nurse with Washington County Public Health, says now is a good time to get a flu shot, which can help protect you while visiting friends and family over the holidays. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to build up in your system. February is usually the peak time for influenza.