North Dakotans Urged to Get Flu Vaccinations

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota's Health Department is urging people to get vaccinated for the upcoming flu season.

Immunization Surveillance Coordinator Amy Schwartz says a couple of vaccine manufacturers are reporting delays in vaccine shipments, but officials still expect an adequate supply starting in October.

Officials at First District Health Unit in Minot have a shot clinic scheduled for Oct. 8 and are still waiting for vaccine to arrive. Spokeswoman Penny Hamilton tells KXMC-TV there are no plans right now to delay the clinic.

Schwartz says the state is urging everyone to get vaccinated, regardless of age or health status.

Flu activity in North Dakota begins in the fall and typically peaks in March or April. Last season there were nearly 3,000 flu cases in the state, with 149 hospitalizations and eight deaths.