Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

INFLUENZA

Influenza (flu) is an airborne viral respiratory condition characterized by symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle pain. Illness can be mild to severe.

Additional information about the flu season is available from Iowa Department of Public Health here.


The First Step: Get Your Flu Shot

Woman Receiving her Flu ShotThe first step and most important step is to get flu vaccine, if you haven’t already—it’s not too late. Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated, and the sooner the better, because it takes two weeks for immunity to develop.


Flu Shot Locations

Flu shots are available at doctors’ offices, retail pharmacies and other locations nearby. Many locations provide shots for free. To find locations, click below or call 211.


People at High Risk

Getting flu vaccine is especially important for people at high risk of influenza-related complications, including:

  1. PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS LIKE ASTHMA, DIABETES AND LUNG DISEASE
  2. PEOPLE 65 YEARS AND OLDER
  3. PREGNANT WOMEN
  4. PEOPLE WHO LIVE WITH OR CARE FOR OTHERS WHO ARE AT HIGHER RISK

Steps to Avoid Getting Sick

  • WASH YOUR HANDS THOROUGHLY AND OFTEN
  • USE HAND SANITIZER
  • STAY AWAY FROM SICK PEOPLE
  • STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK