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Iowa Schools Shift to Remote Learning Amid Winter Illness Surge
30 Jan
Summary
- Keota schools closed Thursday for remote learning due to high student and staff illness.
- Iowa sees higher flu test positivity (29%) than national average (18%).
- Winter illnesses surge, impacting schools and increasing hospital visits.
Keota Community School District in Keota, Iowa, announced a shift to remote learning for its students on Thursday, January 29, 2026. This measure was implemented due to a high volume of illness among both students and staff, affecting both elementary and junior/senior high schools.
The district's decision coincides with a severe winter illness season across Iowa. Data from the week of January 17, 2026, shows flu test positivity in Iowa at 29%, significantly higher than the national average of 18%. This elevated rate contributes to increased emergency department visits for influenza in the state.
