Iowa - Rapid Increase of Flu Activity

[Niko]

IDPH Press Release -- 1/25/2007


<!-- Add the title to the H2 tag below --> Rapid Increase of Flu Activity in Iowa

<!-- Content starts here --> The number of Iowa schools kids missing school because of illness has doubled over the last week, with the flu being the most likely culprit. In the past week, schools in nearly 20 counties have reported 10 percent or more of students out with confirmed flu cases or flu-like illness symptoms. State health officials are urging Iowans to take proactive steps to limit the spread of influenza and to protect their friends and family.


“Our flu surveillance data shows us that influenza is widespread in Iowa, but it seems to be hitting a higher-than-normal number of school-aged children,” said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, Iowa state epidemiologist. Besides schools, health officials also check weekly with hospitals, health clinics, and long-term care facilities to monitor flu activity.


Public health experts have two key steps for Iowans to take during this time of rapid flu spread.

• If you or your school-aged child haven’t gotten the flu shot yet, DO IT NOW. The vaccination quickly provides protection against the three strains of flu circulating in Iowa this year.
• If you or your school-aged child is sick with the flu or flu-like illnesses, stay home from work and school to keep the disease from spreading to co-workers and classmates.

The flu usually comes on suddenly and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, and body aches. People who become severely ill with flu-like symptoms should contact their physician immediately. Since approximately 1,000 Iowans die of influenza/pneumonia each year, the annual flu vaccine will greatly reduce your chances of getting ill. There is still time to be vaccinated.

http://www.idph.state.ia.us/common/press_releases/2007/rapid_flu_increase_012507.asp