Six influenza-associated deaths happened in Iowa last week, bringing the total for the season to 48. Influenza activity in the state is still elevated. There were 84 influenza-related hospitalizations in Iowa last week and the proportion of outpatient visits due to influenza-like illness was 3.81%. The regional baseline is 1.7%. That’s fallen off since a peak of 5.16% in mid-February. People are encouraged to prevent the spread of illness by staying home when they’re sick, covering their coughs and sneezes, and washing their hands frequently for 20 seconds.