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Des Moines clinics stumped by unidentified virus

KCCI • October 7, 2026 • health

Key Points:

Medical professionals in Des Moines are encountering an unidentified illness causing prolonged symptoms such as runny noses, coughs, and congestion lasting around a month.
Patients often recover after about a week but experience a return of symptoms shortly after, with no clear diagnosis from tests for COVID-19, flu, strep, or other common illnesses.
While most patients improve with rest and home care, some cases have progressed to pneumonia, prompting warnings to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, especially with chest pain, difficulty breathing, or fever.
Preventative measures recommended include hand washing, annual vaccinations, avoiding contact with others when sick, staying hydrated, and resting.