First Iowa flu-related death reported this season

A Central Iowa woman has died from complications related to the flu, state public health officials announced Monday.

The elderly woman, who had underlying health conditions, is the first flu-related death of this year's influenza season.

The Iowa Department of Public Health did not release any other details about the woman.

'This death is an unfortunate reminder the flu virus does have the potential to cause severe illness and death, especially in the very young, very old or those who have underlying health conditions,' said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, IDPH's medical director.

About 300,000 Iowans contract the flu each year, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while flu and complications from pneumonia cause an average 1,000 deaths in the state each year.

So far this season, flu activity in Iowa has remained low, according to IDPH. Even still, the flu vaccine is the best defense, officials say.

Flu vaccinations are recommended for everyone six months of age and older. It is especially important for young children, people 65 and older, and pregnant women.

The flu comes on suddenly, and symptoms may include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Illness typically lasts two to seven days.

The flu can cause severe illness or even death in those who are very young or very old, or those who have underlying health conditions, public health officials said.

Influenza is not a 'reportable disease' in Iowa, which means doctors are not required to notify the state each time a patient tests positive for flu. However, the Iowa Department of Public Health conducts year-round flu surveillance through the Iowa Influenza Surveillance Network.

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