As the 2026 respiratory virus season begins, Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) is encouraging community members to protect themselves and their families by staying up to date on recommended seasonal vaccinations, including influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.
Receiving an annual flu vaccine is the best way to help prevent flu and reduce the risk of serious complications that can result in hospitalization or even death. Cheryl Wavrin, FCPH Immunization Coordinator, says, “For people at higher risk, getting the flu vaccine each year is especially important. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines helps protect not only you, but also members of our community who may not be able to be vaccinated.”
During the 2025-2026 influenza season, there were 13,799 cases of influenza reported in North Dakota along with 29 deaths, four of which were among children. FCPH Health Officer Tim Mahoney says, “Influenza had a significant impact in our community last year. In Cass County alone, more than 2,500 influenza cases were reported, along with seven deaths. These numbers remind us that influenza is more than just an inconvenient seasonal illness; it can have serious consequences for people of all ages. As we head into a new respiratory virus season, I encourage everyone to talk with their health care provider about which vaccines are recommended for them. Take that important step to protect your own health and the health of those around you.”
Fargo Mayor Josh Boschee says, “We’re fortunate to have Fargo Cass Public Health providing opportunities throughout our community to make it more convenient for people to take care of their health. I’ll be getting my flu shot on September 14, and I’d encourage others to consider doing the same as we head into the fall by reaching out to their healthcare provider or local pharmacy.”
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness and, in some cases, can lead to hospitalization or death. The first and most important step in preventing flu is to get a flu vaccine each year.
FCPH will host seven fall flu shot clinics throughout September and October. All clinics are open to individuals age 6 months and older; no appointment is needed. Specific clinic information is noted below and is also available at FargoCassPublicHealth.com/Immunizations.
Fall Flu Shot Clinics:
• Friday, September 25, 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.; Rustad Center, 601 26th Ave. E., West Fargo
• Wednesday, September 30, 1:15 p.m. – 3 p.m.; Grandin Fire Hall, 220 Clement Ave., Grandin
• Friday, October 9, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.; Fargo Parks Sports Center, 6100 38th St. S., Fargo
• Wednesday, October 14, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; Harwood City Hall, 108 Main St., Harwood
• Tuesday, October 27, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; West Fargo Public Library, 215 3rd St. E., West Fargo
‘Flu Shot Friday’ events:
• Friday, October 23, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Veterans Memorial Arena, 1201 7th Ave. E., West Fargo
• Friday, October 30, 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; FCPH main building, 1240 25th St. S., Fargo
Quick facts:
• All clinics are walk-in and appointments are not needed
• Flu shots will be available for anyone age 6 months and older
• Both regular seasonal and high-dose flu vaccines will be available
• Individuals should bring their Medicare or health insurance information
• Those without insurance are eligible to receive a flu shot through the Vaccine for Children or Vaccine for Adults programs