The Iowa Department of Public Health reported the first flu death this year on Wednesday. IDPH stated the Central Iowa woman who died was 81 years old and had underlying conditions. According to the state, the flu season began on Oct. 3. While flu cases remain low in Iowa, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people six months and older to receive the flu vaccine. Two weeks after receiving the vaccine, participants will fully benefit from the vaccine’s protection. The first flu death also comes on the heels of the CDC recommending the Pediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 years and older. IDPH is asking Iowans to get the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine.“Though different in nature, these two announcements highlight how important it is that Iowa families take advantage of one of the most critical public health tools we have – vaccines. Both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from these viruses. Getting vaccinated for both influenza and COVID-19 can help preserve health care resources for other needs, including illnesses, injuries and emergencies,” IDPH interim Director Kelly Garcia said. “As we approach the holidays and winter months, I urge Iowans to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy by choosing to get vaccinated.” For information about getting vaccinated, click here.
The Iowa Department of Public Health reported the first flu death this year on Wednesday.
IDPH stated the Central Iowa woman who died was 81 years old and had underlying conditions.
According to the state, the flu season began on Oct. 3. While flu cases remain low in Iowa, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people six months and older to receive the flu vaccine.
Two weeks after receiving the vaccine, participants will fully benefit from the vaccine’s protection.
The first flu death also comes on the heels of the CDC recommending the Pediatric Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 years and older.
IDPH is asking Iowans to get the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine.
“Though different in nature, these two announcements highlight how important it is that Iowa families take advantage of one of the most critical public health tools we have – vaccines. Both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from these viruses. Getting vaccinated for both influenza and COVID-19 can help preserve health care resources for other needs, including illnesses, injuries and emergencies,” IDPH interim Director Kelly Garcia said. “As we approach the holidays and winter months, I urge Iowans to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy by choosing to get vaccinated.”
For information about getting vaccinated, click here.