The South Dakota Department of Health has reported the first two deaths related to influenza in the 2025-2026 flu season. According to Dr. Joshua Clayton, State Epidemiologist for the Department of Health, "Influenza can be a very serious illness. Taking preventative measures like regularly washing hands, covering your cough, and getting vaccinated if you choose against flu will protect you and your family."
Statewide influenza activity is on the rise, with 2,824 laboratory-confirmed cases and 154 hospitalizations reported so far this season. On average, about 40 deaths from influenza are recorded each year in South Dakota.
Health officials recommend several steps to reduce the spread of flu. These include avoiding close contact with sick individuals, frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand gel, not touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth, covering one’s mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when ill.
Annual flu vaccination is advised for everyone aged six months and older. Certain groups are at higher risk for complications from influenza; these include pregnant women, young children under five years old, people over 65 years of age, those with chronic medical conditions, healthcare workers, and individuals living with high-risk populations such as infants.
Information about where to receive a flu vaccine locally is available online through the Department of Health’s website.
Influenza spreads via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes. Typical symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue, muscle aches and nasal congestion.
The Department of Health emphasizes its ongoing mission: "to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans." The department is responsible for promoting wellness initiatives statewide as well as ensuring access to quality healthcare services.
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