Northwest Iowa — The Iowa Department of Public Health has announced the first flu death of the season in Iowa. The IDPH says the victim was an elderly lady in central Iowa.
IDPH Medical Director, Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, says, while the death reported was in central Iowa, the threat is real in our part of the state, as well. She says that’s why it’s important to get vaccinated.
Doctor Quinlisk says the number of flu cases thus far has been pretty low, which she says is typical of the season.
She says the shot will provide you protection fairly quickly.
Quinlisk says the flu vaccine prepared for this year appears to be dialed in to handle the strains that are out there.
Doctor Quinlisk says the flu vaccine is readily available this year.
She says getting a flu shot is important and you should also remember the three Cs: Cover your coughs and sneezes; Clean your hands frequently; and Contain germs by staying home when ill. Quinlisk says besides a flu shot, hand-washing is the single best way to prevent the spread of illness.
