With 43 deaths reported across Iowa, Marion County Public Health is reminding residents to get their flu shots.

Nurse Judi Van Hulzen tells KNIA/KRLS News when people get the flu they shed it within 24 hours and can spread it to people such as the very old or the very young who might not have the best immune system to handle it. She says the flu shot might not cover all the different flu strains but staying 40 percent safe is better than zero. 151 influenza-related hospitalizations were reported in Iowa just this week alone. While Influenza A is usually considered the most severe flu bug, Influenza B is circulating in Iowa as well and is covered by vaccine. Van Hulzen says just because residents might have already had influenza A they can still get Influenza B so she continues to recommend people get the flu shot to stay safe. She adds, everyone should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and to remember to cover their cough. To hear the complete interview with Van Hulzen, tune in to today’s Let’s Talk Knoxville.