Influenza activity in Iowa is increasing and the spread is now regional.

There have been two influenza-associated deaths in Iowa so far this flu season. Also, seven schools have reported 10% or greater absence due to illness and five long-term care centers have influenza outbreaks. This reporting week the State Hygienic Laboratory confirmed 97 influenza A(H3), five influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, and 21 influenza B (Yamagata lineage) from samples submitted. There were 47 influenza-related hospitalizations. People are reminded to clean their hands frequently, cover their coughs, and contain illness by staying home from school or work when they’re sick.