The first flu-related death in the 2018-2019 season in Iowa was reported last week, and residents are urged to get the flu vaccine in order to prevent serious illness and hospitalization.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the death occurred to a middle-aged eastern Iowa man who had underlying conditions. Flu activity has increased over the last three weeks with cases being reported in every region of the state. Guthrie County Public Health Director Jotham Arber recommends everyone over six months of age receive the flu vaccine annually, “With the flu like it was last year it’s really important that people get out and get those flu shots. So that we can get that herd immunity out into the community and help to prevent our younger children and our older folks who are a lot more susceptible to the flu during this time of year.”

The vaccine takes about two weeks for the body to achieve full benefit against the flu virus. No appointment is needed to receive a flu shot at the public health office on Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Flu shots are also available at pharmacies, medical clinics, and from your medical provider.