MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — The South Dakota Department of Health reported the first two influenza-related deaths of the 2025-26 flu season, both Minnehaha County residents in the older-than-64 age group.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Joshua Clayton said flu activity is increasing across South Dakota, with 2,824 lab-confirmed cases and 154 hospitalizations reported so far this season. The department said South Dakota averages about 40 influenza deaths each year.

Health officials urged people to take steps to slow the spread of influenza, including avoiding close contact with sick individuals, washing hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer, avoiding touching the eyes, nose and mouth, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.

The department said yearly flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Officials noted higher-risk groups include pregnant women, children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with chronic medical conditions. Healthcare workers and household contacts of higher-risk individuals are also encouraged to get vaccinated.

A list of vaccine locations is available through the federal vaccine finder, and additional state resources are posted through the Department of Health.