Statewide Iowa — The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services has announced the first influenza-related deaths confirmed as occurring during the 2022-23 influenza season.
Officials tell us both victims were over the age of 81, both were from northern Iowa and both had underlying conditions. They say the current flu season began on October 3, 2022.
HHS says influenza strains, along with other respiratory viruses are circulating the state. The most recent HHS flu report shows the virus at a moderately high level of activity in the state. Iowa hospitals are reporting high patient admission rates. HHS officials remind us that Iowans can help reduce the burden on hospitals and health care providers by taking a few simple precautions.
They say that getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your family from severe illness, hospitalization, and death. They say Iowans should also follow simple practices to keep themselves and their family members healthy during respiratory virus season.
Get vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19.
Stay home if you are sick.
Clean high-touch surfaces in your home frequently with household disinfectants.
Practice hand hygiene frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or hand sanitizer.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or if a tissue is not available, cover them with upper shirt sleeve, not a hand.
Avoid social gatherings if you or your children are ill.
Keep children home from daycare or school who have fever, cough, congestion, runny nose, or sore throat, and until they are fever-free for 24 hours without medications that reduce fever.
They also tell us that if you or a loved one is sick and needs medical care contact your pediatrician or healthcare provider. Your provider can offer advice on whether your child needs to be evaluated in person or tested for COVID-19 or flu. They can also tell you the best location for care. HHS says Iowans should not visit the emergency room for cold and flu symptoms, sore throats, ear infections, minor burns or injuries, sprains and strains, rash or other skin irritations.
