Iowa reports two influenza-related deaths
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Nov. 16 that two middle-aged men from central Iowa died from influenza-related causes. Iowa has the highest number of influenza cases this season, followed by Oregon and Rhode Island.
Based upon CDC’s estimates, approximately 300,000 Iowans catch influenza every year. Influenza and associated complications of pneumonia cause an average of 1,000 deaths annually in Iowa.
The flu season typically peaks in February and can last as late as May.
IDPH and the Hygienic Laboratory are part of the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network, which conducts year-round influenza surveillance to determine how widespread it is and the type of influenza viruses that are circulating in Iowa.
The flu vaccine is the best defense against getting influenza, according to IDPH. The spread of the virus also may be limited by covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands frequently and staying home when ill.
Anti-viral medications are a second line of defense against flu. They may shorten and/or lessen its severity. These medications work best if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. A health care provider should be contacted if influenza symptoms develop. Symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches, which typically last two to seven days.
The elderly and those who are immunocompromised or have an underlying health condition may be particularly susceptible to influenza or influenza-related illnesses.
