Influenza activity in Iowa remains very high for the third consecutive week, with some indicators reaching their highest levels of the season, according to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). For the week ending Feb. 8, 37 percent of reported molecular flu tests were positive, the highest percentage recorded since the 2015-16 respiratory season. While that number dipped slightly to 32 percent the following week, officials say it is too early to determine whether flu activity has peaked. So far this season, 73 influenza-related deaths have been reported in Iowa, nearly 50 of them occurring in the last month. The state also confirmed its first pediatric flu-related death of the season. Despite the severity, flu vaccination rates in Iowa have declined, dropping from 40.6 percent in 2019-20 to 33.8 percent last season. This year’s rates are likely to be even lower. Health officials urge Iowans, especially those at higher risk, to get their flu shot, as it isn’t too late to be beneficial, and take preventive measures, including staying home when sick, covering coughs, and frequent handwashing. The latest Iowa Influenza Surveillance Report from the state is available with this story on our website.
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