South Dakota Reports 65 Influenza Hospitalizations in Early Weeks of 2025-2026 Flu Season
- Steve Jurrens
- Nov 12
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH) has released its influenza summary for the week ending November 8, 2025 (MMWR Week 45), indicating that the 2025-2026 flu season is currently underway.
According to Vickie Larson, Bioterrorism/Influenza Surveillance Coordinator for the DOH, 65 hospitalizations and 38 confirmed influenza cases have been reported in South Dakota this season. The summary reports zero deaths so far this season. The dominant virus for the 2025-2026 season has not yet been determined, as is common in the early stages of the season.
Current Season vs. Historical Averages
Comparing the initial numbers of the 2025-2026 season to historical data provides an early look at the state of the flu in South Dakota:
Season | Deaths | Hospitalizations | Confirmed Cases |
2025-2026 (to Nov. 8) | 0 | 65 | 38 |
Average (2017-2025) | 40 | 690 | 12,504 (see image) |
The peak week for influenza activity in South Dakota has historically occurred around the first week of February. Last year's 2024-2025 season, dominated by the A (H1N1) virus, resulted in 65 deaths, 1,547 hospitalizations, and 21,860 confirmed cases.
The DOH encourages healthcare providers and the public to use the resources available on their website for up-to-date information and proper reporting.
· The full influenza dashboard is posted on the DOH website.
· Confirmed cases (via PCR, DFA, Culture) are reportable, as are influenza-associated hospitalizations and deaths.
Larson, the Bioterrorism/Influenza Surveillance Coordinator, also provided links to resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the national synopsis, seasonal guidance, antiviral medications, and vaccination information.
For citizens, health officials consistently stress the importance of preventative measures, including receiving the influenza vaccination, to protect themselves and the community from severe illness.
