Influenza activity is regional and there have been eleven flu-associated deaths in the state so far this flu season. Last reporting week there were 71 flu-related hospitalizations reported, six of which were children under four years old. According to the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network, nine schools in the state reported 10% or greater absence due to illness, including one in Jefferson County and two in Des Moines County. Lynn Fisher with Washington Public Health reminds people to clean their hands, cover their coughs, and contain illness by staying home when sick.