This week, Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health (BBPH) and local partners are hosting drive-through flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics across the city.
Officials urge residents, especially older adults and those with chronic conditions, to update their flu, pneumonia, and routine health screenings now, before the worst of respiratory season hits.
BBPH provides all recommended adult and childhood vaccines, including seasonal flu and travel immunizations.
In recent years, flu-clinic setups have doubled as emergency preparedness drills, helping staff rehearse mass vaccination logistics.
Essentia Health partnered with BBPH and Sanford Health to promote preventive care, saying vaccination can reduce hospital visits and serious complications.
The North Dakota Department of Health’s influenza portal offers weekly data and guidance for the 2025–26 season.
These efforts aren’t just about flu shots—they tie into a broader push for routine screening of blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes markers, and women’s breast health awareness.
What Matters to You
1. Vaccines: Not Just for Flu
If you're over 65 or manage chronic illnesses (asthma, heart disease, COPD), ask your provider whether a pneumonia vaccine is appropriate.
Flu vaccines are available for everyone 6 months and older; high-dose flu shots offered for seniors.
Most clinics accept Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance — and offer assistance for uninsured.
2. Screenings: Don’t Skip Your Checkups
Blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes—these simple tests can catch “silent” risks before they escalate.
Local primary care clinics in Bismarck are already seeing patients scheduling fall preventive visits.
For women: shift from rigid self-exam routines to breast awareness — know what’s normal for you and report changes (lumps, skin changes, discharge).
3. Clinics & Events You Can Attend
BBPH’s drive-through vaccine clinics at 407 S. 26th St. through mid-October (various afternoon slots).
Essentia Health’s drive-thru session at Bismarck Gateway Clinic (2700 State St.) on Oct. 11.
Sanford clinics in Bismarck and Mandan are also offering flu shots during designated evenings and weekend slots.
“Training events like this let us test traffic flow, screening, communication before real emergencies hit.”
— Crystalynn Kuntz, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, BBPH
Take Action (Your Health, Your Move)
Book your flu, pneumonia, COVID shots now — many clinics accept walk-ins or by appointment.
Schedule your annual screening (BP, cholesterol, A1C) at your trusted clinic.
Tune into your body — women, keep breast awareness high and report any changes to your doctor.
Use trusted resources like BBPH’s immunization page and NDHHS influenza portal for up-to-date guidance.
Don’t Wait for Symptoms
Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean your health is in the clear. This fall in Bismarck, prevention is your strongest defense. Make your appointment, get those shots, get screened—and stay ahead of illness before it hits.
