Lab results today confirmed the second and third H1N1-related deaths in Iowa, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

Both victims were adult males in eastern Iowa and had personal factors that may have put them in a higher risk group for H1N1-flu-related complications, according to a health department press release.

The cases are unrelated.

According to the department, the organization is prohibited by law from releasing more information that could potentially lead to the identification of those who died.

The agency says that H1N1 is circulating around the state. Influenza and influenza-like illnesses are also increasing.

Despite the deaths, the health agenchy isn’t saying this means the virus is getting more severe or prevalent in eastern Iowa.

State Epidemiologist Patricia Quinlisk said Iowans need to take precautions, which include getting the seasonal influenza vaccine and possibly being vaccinated for the H1N1 virus.

The health agency is also encouraging people to clean hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve, and contain germs by staying home when ill.

— by Danny Valentine