Iowa confirms 1st case of the flu of the season

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa has confirmed its first case of the flu for the 2011- 2012 season.

The state health department on Monday said the state’s Hygienic Laboratory confirmed a positive test result in a Polk County child with no reported medical conditions.

Medical Director Dr. Patricia Quinlisk says it’s not too late to get a flu shot, especially for those with risk factors, including heart or lung diseases, diabetes, pregnant women and the very young and very old.

The flu is respiratory illness caused by viruses, and spreads easily from person to person. Symptoms can include fever, headache, tiredness, cough, sore throat and body aches.