So far this flu season, five people have died due to influenza-associated illness in Iowa. According to the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network, flu activity is minimal in Iowa but is regional. Nine flu-related hospitalizations were reported last reporting week and no outbreaks have been reported in long-term care centers so far this season in the state. In this reporting week there were 22 rhinovirus or enterovirus reports and the most frequently identified influenza virus type reported is A. Also, 2.28% of Iowa’s students were absent due to illness. People are encouraged to follow the three C’s – cover your cough, clean hands frequently, and contain illness by staying home when ill.