The first child to die of H1N1 flu in Iowa was reported Tuesday.

The Iowa Department of Public Health said the child, who died in eastern Iowa in October, had factors that increased the risk of complications from H1N1.

Other information, including the child's age, was not released.

Department spokeswoman Polly Carver-Kimm said children have been especially hard hit by the virus. Surveillance is showing an increase in pediatric illnesses and hospitalizations.

All children, especially ages 5 years or younger, and those with chronic medical conditions, are at increased risk for complications and death from influenza, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even children who are otherwise healthy can have severe complications.

All children 6 months and older and anyone living with children less than 6 months old should receive seasonal flu vaccine and are among the priority group for H1N1 vaccine.

Both Johnson and Linn counties have public clinics for priority groups this week for H1N1 vaccine.

Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Many people with H1N1 also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.

Ill children should drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Children under the age of 18 should not take aspirin when they have the flu.