FARGO (KFGO) – Fargo Cass Public Health is urging area residents to protect themselves against seasonal respiratory illnesses as the 2026 virus season gets underway, following a severe flu season last year that claimed seven lives in Cass County.
To lead by example, Fargo Mayor Josh Boschee and Health Officer Dr. Tim Mahoney will publicly receive their annual flu shots Sept. 14 using the health department’s new Mobile Health Unit.
Health officials are encouraging community members to stay up to date on recommended vaccines, including influenza, COVID-19, and RSV. Statewide, North Dakota recorded 13,799 influenza cases and 29 deaths during the 2025–2026 season, four of which were children. Cass County alone logged more than 2,500 cases.
“Influenza had a significant impact in our community last year,” Mahoney said. “These numbers remind us that influenza is more than just an inconvenient seasonal illness; it can have serious consequences for people of all ages.”
Cheryl Wavrin, immunization coordinator for Fargo Cass Public Health, emphasized that annual vaccination is vital for vulnerable populations and helps safeguard those who are unable to be vaccinated.
To make vaccines accessible, the agency will host seven walk-in flu clinics across Fargo, West Fargo, Grandin, and Harwood starting Sept. 25 and running through late October.
The walk-in clinics are open to anyone 6 months and older, offering both standard and high-dose options. No appointments are required, though attendees should bring Medicare or insurance details. Uninsured individuals remain eligible for shots through state assistance programs.
A complete schedule of clinic dates and locations is available at FargoCassPublicHealth.com/Immunizations.
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