It’s no secret that respiratory illnesses can be deadly. Serious respiratory illness infections can also cause long term health impacts and can stretch hospital resources during peak seasons.
Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, CHI St. Alexius Health, Sanford Health, and Western Plains Public Health are coming together to raise awareness about this upcoming respiratory illness season. Not only are we asking the public to be aware of the signs and symptoms of illness to avoid community spread, we are calling on everyone to do their part and get vaccinated.
“During this year’s respiratory illness season, it is critical that we educate ourselves on the importance of illness prevention. Reach out to your healthcare provider or local public health unit to get accurate information in order to make the best decision for your family’s health. We are all here to help!” states Erin Ourada, Western Plains Public Health’s Administrator.
“Our community has the ability to stop the spread,” said Todd Schaffer, MD, President and CEO, Sanford Health Bismarck. “The significance of vaccination is clear in its ability to provide protection against diseases. We encourage everyone to talk to their doctor for guidance and information on how to protect themselves and those around them."
During last year’s respiratory season, only 37% of children 6 months – 4 years received a dose of flu vaccine in North Dakota. Additionally, only 38.5% of North Dakotans 65 years and older received a dose of bivalent COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccines are our best options at keeping North Dakotans out of our hospitals.
“Respiratory infections often follow a seasonal pattern, with more cases in late fall and winter. During the 2022-2023 season, these viruses placed a heavy burden on our communities and health care systems. Individuals should be vaccinated before the end of October, if possible. However, as long as seasonal flu vaccines are available, it is not too late to be vaccinated,” said J’ Patrick Fahn, DO, Chief Medical Officer, CHI St. Alexius Health.
Please join us for a press conference where local public health and hospital leadership will share information on what we are expecting to see this fall and how people can protect themselves and their loved ones from respiratory illnesses.
Date: Monday, September 25, 2023
Time: 9:30 AM
Location: Bismarck- Burleigh Public Health
Main Conference Room
407 South 26th St. Bismarck, ND 58504
Media Q&A session to follow.
Special guests, Miss North Dakota and Bismarck City Commissioner, Anne Cleary will be present to get a flu shot!