FlushotSIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – Health officials in the Dakotas say they’re seeing cases of H1N1 flu – the same strain that caused a pandemic four years ago. State Epidemiologist Lon Kightlinger says the best protection is a flu shot.

There have been 165 verified cases of the flu in North Dakota since September 1st. Burleigh and Cass Counties, are showing higher rates of verified flu cases.

Central Valley Health District, reports seeing more people coming in and getting flu vaccinations.

So far this flu season there has been seven cases of the flu verified in Stutsman County and none in Logan County.

Flu vaccine available at Central Valley Health District will protect against three kinds of influenza viruses — one A (H1N1) virus, one A (H3N2) virus and one B virus. These are different types of flu viruses and are the ones that the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention have determined will be more prevalent this flu season.