Spirit Lake, IA (northwestiowanow) — Dickinson County Public Health is now offering seasonal flu shots.

According to DCPH, all three virus components in the 2026-27 flu vaccine have been updated from last season. The updates include a change intended to target an influenza A strain known as H3N2 subclade K, which spread widely across the country last winter.

Officials recommend September and October as the best months to get vaccinated, as it takes about two weeks for the body to build protection. DCPH holds immunization clinics Tuesdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 5:30 p.m., and Wednesdays from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Annual flu vaccines are recommended for everyone six months and older. Vaccines cost $30 if not covered by insurance, while a high dose shot for those 65 and older costs $70. FluMist is also available for eligible people between the ages of two and 49.

Dickinson County Public Health is located at Lakes Regional Healthcare in Spirit Lake. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 712-339-6050. Flu shots are also available through area pharmacies and Lakes Regional Family Medicine.