Influenza is widespread with high activity in Iowa at this time.

There have been 97 influenza-associated deaths in Iowa this flu season. In the last reporting week, there were 48 schools with 10% or greater absence due to illness, including one in Henry County, one in Louisa County, and four in Johnson County.

Washington County Public Health Nurse Lynn Fisher says there are a few simple things people can do to prevent the spread of influenza and other illnesses, including washing your hands frequently with hot soapy water. Also, cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or in the crook of your elbow. If you are sick, stay home to prevent the spread of illness, including home from work, school, and running errands.

There were 152 influenza-associated hospitalizations last reporting week and seven long-term care influenza outbreaks. The most frequently identified virus subtype across the country was A(H3).