Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health (BBPH) is kicking off its drive-through flu vaccination campaign this October, offering residents a fast, convenient option to get their flu shots without leaving their cars. Clinics will be held at 407 S. 26th Street, Bismarck, on Oct. 6, 8, 10, and 15, with varying hours.
As flu season approaches, local health officials are urging Bismarck area residents—especially seniors, children, pregnant people, and those with chronic conditions—to get vaccinated early. The drive-through format reduces barriers like limited mobility, time constraints, and exposure concerns.
This push aligns with statewide immunization messaging from North Dakota’s health authorities.
Meanwhile, local health systems are joining in: Essentia Health’s drive-thru clinic is set for Oct. 11 at 2700 State St. in Bismarck for residents aged 12 and up (with high-dose options for 65+) while Sanford Health is scheduling flu vaccination events at multiple Bismarck clinics throughout October.
Putting shots “in reach” is a deliberate effort in Bismarck to stay ahead of outbreaks and ease pressure on local clinics and hospitals.
Public Health Director Renae Moch emphasizes: “We want to make vaccination as barrier-free as possible for every Bismarck and Burleigh County resident—we’ll work with uninsured folks too,” according to the BBPH site.
At Essentia, clinic coordinators remind participants: “You do not need to be an Essentia patient to attend—just bring your insurance card if you have one.”
Clinic Info Summary
Date | Time | Location | Notes & Registration Info |
|---|
Oct. 6 | 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. | 407 S. 26th St, Bismarck | Register at tinyurl.com/f5rxx38d or call 701-355-1540 |
Oct. 8 | 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Same | — |
Oct. 10 | 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Same | — |
Oct. 15 | 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. | Same |
What to bring / tips:
Insurance card (if available); if uninsured, notify staff at registration.
Wear short sleeves or clothing that allows easy arm access.
For those preferring in-office visits, call BBPH to schedule.
Reminder: these dates are for the drive-through option only; other vaccination sites (Essentia, Sanford) will handle interior clinics and different schedules.
Flu seasons vary year to year, but early vaccination can significantly reduce hospitalizations, especially among vulnerable groups. For Bismarck, reducing local flu burden also means less strain on emergency departments and less overlap with COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses.
One additional pressure: North Dakota’s ongoing debates over vaccine legislation have sharpened public focus on immunization. Earlier this year, state health advocates defended immunization mandates against attempts to expand exemptions.
For Bismarck and surrounding communities, higher vaccination uptake helps “herd protection”—protecting those who can’t safely be vaccinated—while fostering trust in public health efforts.
The drive-through flu vaccine campaign in Bismarck is a smart, timely move to make health access easier across the city. For busy adults, parents, seniors, and those worried about exposure—this is your chance. Don’t wait until winter knocks—get ahead, get vaccinated, and help keep Bismarck healthy.
