Health officials say the upcoming flu season could be severe in Iowa and across the region. Dr. Joel Waddell (wah-DELL), a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines told Radio Iowa this week that recommends everyone six months or older who is eligible consider getting a flu shot. State data shows 36 percent of Iowans received a flu vaccine last season. Waddell says the flu can impact otherwise healthy people, and some cases result in death. He adds that September and October are generally considered the best months to get vaccinated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older who does not have a contraindication.*
This story courtesy Radio Iowa. Full story can be found here:https://www.radioiowa.com/2025/09/04/the-flu-season-ahead-may-be-a-doozy-iowa-doc-says-get-vaccinated-now/
Additional reporting by RadioOnTheGo News.
Editor’s note for online readers:
Sections marked with an asterisk include added context or background not in the original Radio Iowa report.
