Along with parties and presents, the holiday season can also bring the flu. In the most recent report for the week ending December 6th, influenza activity in South Dakota was rated as "sporadic,” among the lowest in the country.
But state epidemiologist Dr. Lon Kightlinger is concerned about how the flu season could develop. This year an unpredicted strain of flu is hitting hard in some areas of the country. Kightlinger says the H3 strain has been around for 46 years, but health officials never know when it’s going to show up. During an interview on Dakota Midday, Kightlinger said he's bracing for a severe influenza year here that could be treacherous.
He says the H3 strain is not covered in this year’s vaccine but it’s still important to get the flu shot to protect yourself from other flu strains that are also making an appearance in South Dakota. He also urges people who are sick to stay home and rest and not spread germs.