The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports influenza activity in the state continues to climb steadily as we head into the winter months. State health officials say positive results from the Iowa Respiratory Virus Survey increased to 2.3 percent over the last three weeks, surpassing the 1.7-percent regional baseline. The Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network shows the hospitalization rate for influenza is about 16.35 per 10,000 patients. According to the department, this increase in flu activity emphasizes the importance of seasonal vaccinations. It generally takes about two weeks to achieve maximum efficacy for the flu shot, which means there is still time to protect yourself and loved ones during holiday gatherings. The IDPH recommends everyone six months and older get the flu shot, especially Iowans with a high risk of complications or people who regularly come in contact with high-risk individuals. Vaccines can be administered via injection or nasal spray. To find a provider near you, visit. www.vaccines.gov.
