The last flu season was an active one in North Dakota.
"We had 4,833 cases of influenza reported to us," said State Health Department influenza surveillance coordinator Jill Baber. "Tha average is about 2500."
Baber said while there were no reported pediatric flu deaths, 516 deaths were reported from pneumonia or influenza-like illness. She says there’s no way to know what this upcoming season will bring – and that’s why the Department is reminding people to get their flu shots.
"It's important because it protects you and your loved ones from influenza," said Department immunization surveillance coordinator Amy Schwartz. "Even if you don't think you need the flu shot for yourself, everyone knows someone at high risk, and that's why you should be vaccinated -- to protect others."
Schwartz says there should be plenty of vaccine available this year.