SIOUX FALLS, S.D.—The South Dakota Department of Health (SD DOH) has announced the first flu-related death of the 2024-2025 season, involving a resident from Corson County over the age of 65. This unfortunate event serves as a somber reminder of the respiratory illness’s potentially deadly nature, especially for older adults and those with chronic health conditions.
South Dakota typically sees an average of 33 flu-related deaths annually, a statistic that underscores the importance of public health measures. At the forefront of these efforts, the SD DOH and Avera are diligently working to keep residents informed. Their mission is straightforward yet crucial: help the public stay healthy and safe from the flu.
Avera
The flu, caused by influenza viruses, exhibits symptoms that can range from a mere cold to severe, sometimes fatal, illness. Dr. David Basel, Vice President of Clinical Quality at Avera, stresses the gravity, stating, ‘Sometimes, especially in older individuals or those who have multiple chronic conditions, it can even be fatal and it tends to be one of the more common causes of hospitalization during the winter months.”
As of now, the state has reported 215 confirmed flu cases and 15 hospitalizations. Though these numbers are relatively low at this stage of the flu season, Dr. Basel emphasizes that this year’s flu trends are expected to return to pre-COVID patterns. Historically, the state experiences a smaller peak in flu cases in December, with a more significant surge in late January and February.
The flu spreads quickly via small droplets, making preventative measures essential. The SD DOH recommends the following steps to mitigate the risk:
- Wash your hands often.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Stay home if you’re feeling sick.
- Avoid close contact with individuals who are ill.
Moreover, the department underscores the importance of timely flu vaccinations. Dr. Basel advises, ‘The flu shot takes several weeks to take effect, so you can’t really wait until you see a lot of flu circulating in the community to get your flu shot. Now is the time to get it if you have not already so that you’ve had two or three weeks for your immune system to react and build up to it so that when flu really does take off, you’re prepared.”
Dr. Basel reassures that the flu vaccine will provide protection throughout the flu season and is updated annually based on international flu strain movements. For those considered high-risk, antiviral treatments are available to potentially reduce the duration of illness or avert hospitalization.
In response to such health challenges, the SD DOH has actively reshaped its community health services and opened applications for the third year of the State Loan Repayment Program as of October 2024. These initiatives aim to enhance healthcare access across South Dakota, an effort that also includes the provision of professional licensing and vital records services.
South Dakota Department of Health
In addition to combating the flu, the SD DOH is engaged in broader health concerns encompassing Alzheimer’s, American Indian health, cancer care, children’s health, diabetes management, and much more. The department remains a crucial element of South Dakota’s infrastructure, promoting wellness and providing critical health data and reports throughout the state.
South Dakota’s unique demographic and cultural landscapes demand a tailored approach to health education and services. With a strong presence of American Indian communities and a growing elderly population, targeted health interventions and educational campaigns by the SD DOH stand as essential components of public well-being.
By remaining vigilant and informed, South Dakotans can contribute to halting the flu’s spread. As the colder months take hold, taking initiatives outlined by health authorities can ensure a healthier community, reducing strain on healthcare services and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
For continuous updates and more information on preventative initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the SD DOH website and follow local media channels closely.