Flu Cases activity is rising across Iowa, leading to increased school absences and emergency room visits as the state experiences a severe flu season.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reports that over 10% of hospital ER visits last week were due to flu-related illnesses, compared to 4% during the same period last year. Health experts warn that the flu season is far from over and may continue for several more weeks.

Flu-Related Absences in Schools

The flu has also impacted school attendance across the state. 174 schools reported absence rates of at least 10%, marking a 25% increase from the previous week. Schools are struggling to manage the rising cases, with some districts considering temporary closures or remote learning options to prevent further spread.

Many parents and educators are concerned about the growing number of students falling ill, and school nurses are overwhelmed with cases of flu-like symptoms. Teachers are encouraging students to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing, to help limit the spread of the virus.

Hospitals Take Precautions

Due to the surge in flu cases, UnityPoint hospitals in Des Moines have required ER staff to wear masks at all times. Even when treating non-respiratory cases, such as sprained ankles, medical personnel are taking extra precautions.

Dr. Clint Hawthorne, medical director for UnityPoint ER departments, emphasized that those with mild flu symptoms should consider visiting urgent care clinics or using telehealth services rather than overwhelming ERs. “High-risk patients, such as the elderly and those with preexisting conditions, should prioritize ER visits,” he said.

Other hospitals across the state have also implemented additional safety measures, including designated flu-only treatment areas to separate flu patients from those with other medical conditions. This approach aims to prevent cross-infection and provide better care for those most affected by the flu.

Flu Shot Still Recommended

Health officials urge Iowans to get vaccinated to reduce their risk of severe illness. Dr. Karen Brust, a hospital epidemiologist at UI Health Care, noted that the current flu vaccine matches well with the dominant flu strain this season.

According to state data, 31% of Iowans have received a flu shot, slightly below last season’s 34% vaccination rate. Flu vaccination rates have been declining since 2019, raising concerns among health experts as influenza A cases rise.

Dr. Brust emphasized that getting vaccinated not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus to vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Precautions to Stay Safe

Experts recommend taking the following precautions:

Get the flu shot—it’s not too late to build immunity.

Stay home if sick to prevent spreading the virus.

Wash hands regularly to reduce transmission.

Wear masks in crowded public spaces, especially if you are at high risk.

Disinfect commonly touched surfaces, including doorknobs, mobile phones, and shared workspaces.

Maintain good respiratory hygiene, such as coughing or sneezing into a tissue or elbow.

The flu season in Iowa is far from over, with officials warning that cases may continue to rise in the coming weeks. With vaccination rates declining and hospital visits increasing, taking preventive measures is crucial to reducing the impact of the flu on communities across the state. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to stay informed and proactive in protecting themselves and others from the flu.