Ninety-six people were hospitalized and there were six influenza-related deaths in Iowa last week. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, influenza activity is still elevated and widespread. The proportion of outpatient visits due to influenza-like illness was 4.39%, above the regional baseline of 1.7%. There were also 48 schools across the state with 10% or greater absence due to illness, including one in Henry County and one in Jefferson County. Three long-term care influenza outbreaks were reported.

People are reminded to contain the spread of illness by staying home when they’re sick. Also, wash your hands frequently and cover coughs and sneezes. So far this flu season, 35 people have died in Iowa with influenza-associated illness, including one pediatric death.