Flu activity continues to rise across South Dakota, with state health officials reporting thousands of new cases and several recent deaths as the 2025–26 influenza season intensifies.
According to the South Dakota Department of Health’s influenza dashboard, the state has recorded more than 5,200 confirmed cases, over 300 hospitalizations, and six flu‑related deaths this season. Four of those deaths were reported in the past week alone, involving residents of Minnehaha, Lincoln, and Meade counties.
The most recent weekly update shows:
- 1,287 new positive cases statewide
- 61 new hospitalizations in the past week
- Four new deaths, bringing the total to six
Minnehaha County continues to report the highest case numbers, with more than 1,800 infections since the season began.
Some counties that had seen little or no activity earlier in the season — including Walworth and Potter — are now reporting new cases as the virus spreads more widely.
Health officials say the H3N2 subtype is increasing, with more than 200 confirmed cases statewide. Type A (unspecified) remains the most common strain detected in rapid tests.
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