Flu activity is climbing across northwest Iowa and statewide, according to local public health leaders who say both influenza A and B are circulating after the holiday season.
In Buena Vista County, Public Health and Home Care Administrator Tracy Gotto says the trend is clear.
He notes holiday gatherings and schools have contributed to the spread.
In Ida County, Public Health Coordinator Rebecca Burns says the same pattern is showing up.
Burns says residents should watch for fever, cough, and runny nose—and take symptoms seriously.
Sac County Health Services Administrator Shelley Vauble adds that fever is one of the clearest signals to stay home from work or school, and she emphasizes prevention through good handwashing, staying home when sick, and not hesitating to get vaccinated.
Vauble says flu shots are widely available at pharmacies, clinics, and family doctors, and she hopes residents see vaccination as a routine step each year to protect themselves and their neighbors.
Both Burns and Gotto also stress that flu shots remain widely available—and it’s not too late to get one. Gotto notes Buena Vista County even offers free vaccinations for agricultural workers through a state program. Burns reminds residents that pharmacies, clinics, and public health offices all have doses on hand.
Gotto says vaccination and isolation when sick are the best ways to protect vulnerable populations.
Burns echoes that message.
Public health officials say flu and respiratory virus activity is expected to remain elevated through January, and they encourage residents to monitor symptoms, stay home when ill, and take advantage of readily available flu vaccinations.
