WATERTOWN, S.D. (KWAT) — It’s not only the holiday season, but the influenza season too, and South Dakota’s state epidemiologist says the flu is making an appearance in the state as we wrap up the year.

Dr. Joshua Clayton is with the South Dakota Department of Health.

He says the strain of flu that’s showing up this season is a little different from years past.

Clayton says the best way to protect yourself is by getting a flu shot. He says for people who don’t like needles, a flu mist is available.

Last year, there were 668 lab-confirmed cases on influenza in South Dakota, and 43 flu-related deaths.