Today, South Dakota reported three flu-related deaths, the first deaths of the 2019-2020 season. The deaths were reported in Deuel and Mellette counties and the individuals were all aged 50 years and older. To protect patient confidentiality, additional information about the deceased is not being released.

To date, the state has reported 1,555 lab-confirmed cases of flu and 59 flu-related hospitalizations.

Each year, an average of 46 South Dakotan deaths are reported to the Department of Health following influenza infections. To protect against flu complications, annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone.