The first influenza cases of the season have been identified in Iowa. The State Hygienic Laboratory has identified three cases of influenza in the state. The cases are in Henry, Johnson and Polk counties. Iowa Department of Public Health Medical Director, Dr. Patricia Quinlisk states an estimated 300,000 Iowans get the flu each year and flu with its complication of pneumonia causes an average of 1,000 deaths each year in Iowa. IDPH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend everyone six-months of age and older get an annual influenza vaccination.