Influenza cases in North Dakota were down somewhat in early January, according to data released Thursday, Jan. 15. However, influenza remains prevalent in the state, the report stated. Moderate activity was listed related to the COVID-19 virus.

Reporting Week: Week 1

Week Ending: Jan. 10

Report Date: Jan. 15

Data Source: North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

Reporting Period: Respiratory Season (Aug. 1, 2025-July 31, 2026)

This report provides a weekly summary of respiratory disease activity in North Dakota, including influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Data is used for surveillance and monitoring of trends. All data are preliminary.

During the week ending Jan. 10, North Dakota reported 1,037 influenza cases, representing a decrease compared to the prior reporting week. COVID-19 cases increased during the same period, with 350 cases reported statewide. RSV activity remained low, with 30 cases identified, reflecting a slight increase from the previous week.

The statewide percentage of laboratory tests with positive results across all testing types was 3.41% for the reporting week. This represents a decrease from the prior week.

Outpatient surveillance data collected through the Influenza-Like Illness Network indicated continued respiratory illness activity statewide. Influenza activity was categorized as high for the reporting week, while COVID-19 activity was classified as moderate.

Nine influenza-related hospitalizations were reported during the week, reflecting a slight increase from the prior week. COVID-19 accounted for 14 hospitalizations, also representing a slight increase. No RSV-related hospitalizations were reported during the reporting period, indicating no change from the previous week.

Since the start of the 2025-26 respiratory season on Aug. 1, 2025, North Dakota has reported 6,204 influenza cases, 2,696 COVID-19 cases and 165 RSV cases.

Season-to-date hospitalization data indicate 97 influenza-related hospitalizations and 44 COVID-19-related hospitalizations statewide. RSV hospitalizations for the season totaled eight.

Influenza vaccination coverage among individuals aged 6 months and older was estimated at 24.88% for the season, representing a decrease from the prior week. COVID-19 vaccination coverage was reported at 6.95%, also reflecting a decrease. RSV vaccination coverage was estimated at 1.43%, representing an increase from the previous week.

RSV activity remains low statewide. Influenza activity continues to be elevated despite a decline in weekly case counts. Vaccination coverage for influenza and COVID-19 remains low entering mid-winter. Surveillance data will continue to be monitored on a weekly basis.

The next Respiratory Disease Surveillance Report will reflect data for the week ending Jan. 17.