Four cases of influenza have been confirmed in Washington County. Washington County Public Health states the State Hygienic Laboratory confirmed the type A strain cases. The department encourages community members to get flu vaccinations each year and after about two weeks the vaccination antibodies provide protection against influenza. Also, practice good hand hygiene, maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay home when you are sick to protect yourself and others from getting the flu. While flu activity in Iowa is low at this time, influenza is circulating in Washington County.