Five flu deaths prompt renewed vaccination push across Stutsman County

State health officials urged North Dakotans to take precautions after five flu-related deaths this season, including two children under the age of ten — the first reported child fatalities in the state since 2016. Officials said cases were widespread, with more than 5,000 reported as of early January, and that declining vaccine uptake may have worsened outcomes.

Officials reported vaccination coverage fell to roughly 25 percent this season, down from above 30 percent during the 2023–24 season. They emphasized it is not too late to get a flu shot that covers the season’s major strains, noting vaccines remain the primary protection against severe illness and hospitalization.

Medical providers advised parents and caregivers to watch for signs that warrant immediate care. Clinicians pointed specifically to labored breathing, described as “belly breathing” or flared nostrils, and symptoms of dehydration as reasons to seek prompt evaluation. State hospitalization data showed a rise in admissions tied to influenza this winter, and some areas were braced for a possible second wave of activity.

For Stutsman County residents, the current situation raises particular concerns for families with young children, people with chronic illnesses, and older adults. Local clinics and schools may see increased absenteeism as illness spreads, and health-care providers could face higher patient loads if hospital trends mirror state patterns. Parents and caregivers should monitor children closely for worsening symptoms and follow guidance from pediatricians and emergency departments.

Health officials reiterated routine precautions: get vaccinated, stay home when sick, and practice good hand hygiene. They also urged people with severe symptoms or difficulty breathing to seek medical attention without delay. While the state’s vaccine coverage decline was modest numerically, officials said even small drops can affect community protection and allow more severe cases to occur.

The recent fatalities underline that seasonal influenza can still carry serious risks, even in years with widely available vaccines. For residents of Stutsman County, the immediate steps are practical and familiar: consider getting a flu shot if you have not already, watch children and vulnerable household members for the specific danger signs public health authorities named, and consult local health-care providers about testing and treatment options. As the season progresses, officials will track hospitalization and case trends and advise the public if additional measures become necessary.