Northwest Iowa — An elderly northwest Iowa man is reported, by the Iowa Department of Public Health, as one of four new flu deaths in the state.
IDPH Medical Director, Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, says the other three victims include an elderly female, and older adult female in southeast Iowa, as well as an elderly female in northeast Iowa.
A total of six flu-related deaths have been reported in the state since October, and the average age of those who have died is 86.
Three individuals who died had underlying conditions or contributing factors reported. Doctor Quinlisk says it’s not too late to get a flu shot to protect yourself.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, recommends anyone over six months of age receive a flu vaccination. Quinlisk says there is something you can do if you think you are coming down with the flu.
Quinlisk says the very young, very old and those with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to the flu. She says there is a second line of protection for them once they have the flu shot.
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. It comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days, and often puts healthy people in bed for days.
